The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame just dropped its Class of 2026—and it’s stacked with icons across rock, hip-hop, soul, and beyond.

Announced during an episode of American Idol, this year’s inductees include Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Billy Idol, Oasis, Sade, Wu-Tang Clan, and the late Luther Vandross. Also joining the class are Joy Division and New Order, whose shared lineage helped define post-punk and electronic music.

To be eligible, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago. More than 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals cast votes to determine who gets in.

A Mix of Legends and First-Timers

This year’s class blends longtime favorites with first-time nominees. Collins—already inducted as part of Genesis—makes it in for his solo career, powered by massive hits like “In the Air Tonight.” Meanwhile, Wu-Tang Clan earns its first nod into the Hall, recognized for reshaping hip-hop with their groundbreaking debut Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).

Sade, known for smooth classics like “Smooth Operator,” finally lands a spot after a previous nomination, while Iron Maiden’s influence on heavy metal earns them a long-awaited induction after multiple tries.

International Sound Takes Center Stage

Manchester gets major representation this year, with both Joy Division/New Order and Oasis making the cut. The latter—fronted by brothers Noel Gallagher and Liam Gallagher—continues its comeback era with this major milestone. Billy Idol rounds out the UK presence, bringing his signature punk-pop edge into the Hall.

Special Honors and Influences

Beyond performers, the Hall also recognizes artists and industry figures in special categories.

The Early Influence Award goes to a diverse group including Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons—each of whom helped shape genres and generations.

The Musical Excellence category honors behind-the-scenes legends like songwriter Linda Creed and producers Rick Rubin, Arif Mardin, and Jimmy Miller.

And in a nod to television’s role in music history, Ed Sullivan will receive the Ahmet Ertegun Non-Performer Award for turning his show into a launchpad for some of the biggest acts of the 20th century.

When and Where

The induction ceremony is set for November 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, with a broadcast airing in December on ABC and Disney+. The following year, the event heads back to Cleveland, home of the Hall.

Who Didn’t Make the Cut

Not everyone got in this time around. Big names like Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, Shakira, Pink, and INXS were among those who missed out for 2026.

Still, with such a wide-ranging and influential group of inductees, this year’s class proves once again that the Rock Hall is all about honoring music’s biggest impact—no matter the genre.