Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2026: Phil Collins, Mariah Carey & More Nominated

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame unveiled its nominees for the class of 2026 on Wednesday, a list reflecting a broad spectrum of musical influence and spanning genres from rap and R&B to metal and pop. Among the 17 performers vying for induction are Phil Collins, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, INXS, Iron Maiden, Luther Vandross, and Shakira.

The announcement, made via a press release from the Rock Hall, highlights a deliberate effort to recognize the “ever-evolving faces and sounds of Rock & Roll and its continued impact on youth culture,” according to chairman John Sykes. This year’s roster also includes Melissa Etheridge, Jeff Buckley, Pink, New Edition, Sade, and the Wu-Tang Clan, demonstrating a commitment to honoring artists who have left an indelible mark on music history.

Notably, several artists return to the nomination list after previously being considered. Billy Idol and Joy Division/New Order, both overlooked in the past, are once again in the running. The list also features two sets of siblings known for both their musical contributions and public disputes: The Black Crowes and Oasis, suggesting a potential for reconciliation and recognition within the Hall of Fame.

The nominations acknowledge a diverse range of achievements. Phil Collins, already inducted as a member of Genesis, is recognized for his successful solo career, boasting eight Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year in 1985 for “No Jacket Required.” Lauryn Hill’s groundbreaking album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” is celebrated as the first hip-hop album to receive the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1999, solidifying its place as a landmark achievement in music history.

Mariah Carey, a nominee in both 2024 and 2025, continues to be recognized for her unparalleled success, having amassed 19 number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100. Sade, also nominated in 2024, is lauded for her smooth jazz and soft rock hits like “Smooth Operator” and “The Sweetest Taboo.” The Wu-Tang Clan, hailed as innovators in the rap genre since their 1993 debut album, “Enter the Wu-Tang,” represent a significant contribution to hip-hop culture.

Beyond these established stars, the list also shines a spotlight on influential acts like INXS, who dominated the late 1980s charts with hits such as “Need You Tonight,” and Melissa Etheridge, a two-time Grammy winner known for songs like “Come to My Window.” Iron Maiden’s pivotal role in shaping the new wave of British heavy metal is also acknowledged, alongside the enduring popularity of New Edition, known for hits like “Cool It Now” and “Candy Girl.”

Shakira’s ability to seamlessly blend Latin music with rock and pop, and Pink’s four number-one songs and three number-one albums, including “The Truth About Love,” further demonstrate the breadth of talent represented among the nominees. Ten of the 17 nominees – Buckley, Collins, Etheridge, Hill, INXS, New Edition, Pink, Shakira, Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan – are appearing on the ballot for the first time.

The list also pays tribute to artists who are no longer with us. Luther Vandross, who sold over 25 million albums and delivered hits like “Here and Now” and “Any Love,” passed away in 2005. Jeff Buckley, whose 1994 debut album “Grace” remains critically acclaimed, died in 1997. Their inclusion underscores the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s commitment to honoring the legacies of artists who have profoundly impacted the musical landscape.

The final inductees will be revealed in April, alongside those selected through three special committee categories: Musical Influence, Musical Excellence, and the Ahmet Ertegun Non-Performer Award. The voting process involves over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals, ensuring a comprehensive and considered selection process.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame requires artists to have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to being eligible for induction. Last year’s inductees included Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Soundgarden, Joe Cocker, Salt-N-Pepa, The White Stripes, Carol Kaye, Nicky Hopkins, Lenny Waronker, Thom Bell, and Warren Zevon, setting a high bar for the incoming class of 2026.