The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has officially unveiled its Class of 2026, honouring a diverse lineup of internationally acclaimed artists and bands whose influence has shaped the global music landscape across multiple decades and genres. The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on 14 November at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, United States. It will subsequently be broadcast on ABC in December and made available for streaming on Disney+.
This year’s performer category features a particularly eclectic mix, ranging from pioneering heavy metal and post-punk acts to mainstream pop icons and foundational hip-hop collectives. The selection reflects the Hall’s continued effort to recognise both commercial success and long-term cultural impact.
Among the most notable inductees is Iron Maiden, widely regarded as one of the most enduring and influential heavy metal bands in history. Formed in 1980, the British group has maintained a powerful global presence for more than four decades. Their induction comes after years of anticipation from fans and industry observers. Band manager Rod Smallwood expressed gratitude on behalf of the group, emphasising that their sustained connection with audiences has always been the foundation of their success. He also noted the symbolic importance of the recognition coinciding with the band’s 50th anniversary celebrations and ongoing world tour.
Phil Collins is also inducted for a second time, having previously entered the Hall in 2010 as a member of Genesis. His solo career produced some of the most recognisable tracks of the 1980s and 1990s, including “In the Air Tonight”, “Against All Odds” and “Take Me Home”.
Other inductees include Billy Idol, who transitioned from punk roots in Generation X to a successful solo career defined by hits such as “White Wedding” and “Eyes Without a Face”. Post-punk pioneers Joy Division and their successor band New Order are recognised for their profound influence on alternative music, with iconic songs like “Love Will Tear Us Apart” and “Blue Monday”.
Britpop giants Oasis also join the Hall, celebrated for defining an era with their landmark album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, while R&B group Sade are honoured for their smooth, sophisticated sound led by classics such as “Smooth Operator”. Hip-hop collective Wu-Tang Clan are recognised for reshaping rap music with their groundbreaking 1993 debut album. The late Luther Vandross receives posthumous recognition for his exceptional contribution to soul music, having passed away in 2005.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2026
| Artist / Band | Genre | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Phil Collins | Pop / Rock | Solo success and Genesis legacy |
| Iron Maiden | Heavy Metal | Global heavy metal pioneers |
| Billy Idol | Rock / Punk | Punk roots and solo hits |
| Joy Division / New Order | Post-punk | Shaping alternative music |
| Oasis | Britpop | Defining 1990s British rock |
| Wu-Tang Clan | Hip-Hop | Revolutionising rap music |
| Sade | R&B | Sophisticated, smooth sound |
| Luther Vandross | Soul | Posthumous recognition |
This year’s announcement underscores the breadth of musical innovation across genres and eras, reaffirming the Hall of Fame’s role in celebrating artists whose work has left a lasting imprint on global popular culture.