Rock Hall reveals 2026 inductees as Wu-Tang Clan and Luther Vandross join icons
Phil Collins joins the prestigious performer category in the newly announced 2026 class
On Monday, the music world paused as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced its prestigious 2026 inductee class.
The reveal took place during a themed episode of American Idol, with Ryan Seacrest and Lionel Richie sharing the names of those set for immortality.
This year’s performer category highlights a broad spectrum of talent, featuring Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Sade, Wu-Tang Clan, and the late Luther Vandross.
Notably, both Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan achieved induction as first-time nominees. Beyond the main category, the institution will honour Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons with the Early Influence Award.
Musical Excellence Awards will be presented to Linda Creed, Arif Mardin, Jimmy Miller, and Rick Rubin, while Ed Sullivan receives the Ahmet Ertegun Award posthumously.
The induction ceremony is scheduled for 14 November at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. John Sykes, Chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, expressed the magnitude of the occasion, stating, "Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is music's highest honour. We look forward to celebrating these remarkable artists at this year’s ceremony - it’s going to be an unforgettable night."
The gala will be recorded for a December broadcast on ABC and Disney+. While this announcement marks a career pinnacle for the 2026 class, it follows the 2025 induction of icons such as OutKast and Cyndi Lauper, continuing the Hall's tradition of celebrating those whose debut recordings arrived at least 25 years ago.