The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announced its 2026 list of nominees this week. Rock Hall nominees must have released their first single or album at least 25 years ago. This rule excludes artists who debuted after 2001.
The 2026 nominees include Phil Collins, Lauryn Hill, Mariah Carey, Oasis, Pink, the Black Crowes, Jeff Buckley, Melissa Etheridge, Billy Idol, INXS, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, New Edition, Sade, Shakira, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.
Ten of the 17 nominees have never been shortlisted before. Phil Collins, Jeff Buckley, Shakira, INXS, and Pink appear for the first time, even though they were eligible in previous years.
The Hall of Fame uses a voting panel of 1,200 members alongside a fan poll to determine the inductees. The final 2026 class will be revealed in April. At the same time, the Hall will announce the winners of the Musical Influence Award, Musical Excellence Award, and the Ahmet Ertegun Non-Performer Award.
John Sykes, chairman of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation, said the nominees reflect “the ever-evolving faces and sounds of Rock & Roll and its continued impact on youth culture.” He added, “Induction is music’s highest honour, and we look forward to celebrating the Class of 2026 this fall.”
Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher has previously criticized the Hall of Fame. After the band’s first nomination in 2024, he said, “As much as I love Mariah Carey and all that, I want to say: do me a favour and fuck off.” He also claimed that Oasis “has done more for rock ‘n’ roll than half of them clowns.”
Earlier this week, Gallagher reacted to a fan poll that ranked Oasis 19th among projected future inductees. He called the ranking “embarrassing” on social media. Despite his criticism, the nomination places Oasis among influential artists in music history.
The 2026 list highlights both iconic legends and first-time nominees. It demonstrates the genre’s wide reach across generations. Furthermore, fans can expect a competitive selection of artists with lasting impact.
Overall, Rock Hall nominees showcase music’s enduring influence. The list celebrates artists who shaped rock, pop, and hip-hop while inspiring new generations.
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