The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrated its 2026 class of 18 musical artists at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Artists become eligible for induction 25 years after their first music release.
Among the inductees were the hip-hop collective Wu-Tang Clan, honored for their innovative sound since their 1993 debut. Rapper Queen Latifah, who achieved significant success with hits like "Ladies First," was recognized with the Early Influence Award. The influential R&B singer Luther Vandross, known for his smooth ballads, was also inducted.
British rock band Oasis, led by the Gallagher brothers, received induction, though the band members did not attend the ceremony. Trailblazing rapper MC Lyte, the first female rapper to release a full solo album, also received the Early Influence Award and accepted in person.
The acclaimed band Sade, known for blending jazz and R&B, was inducted, but the lead singer did not appear. Gram Parsons, a pivotal figure in country rock, was honored posthumously with the Early Influence Award. Dick Clark, the television host credited with bringing rock and roll into American living rooms and consistently featuring Black artists, was inducted with the Ahmet Ertegun Award for non-performers.
Other honorees included singer Billy Idol, who was inducted alongside his longtime guitarist Steve Stevens. The joint induction of Joy Division and its successor band New Order recognized their significant impact on post-punk and electronic music. Heavy metal band Iron Maiden was also inducted.
Latin music icon Celia Cruz, celebrated for popularizing Afro-Cuban sounds, became the first Hall of Fame member to primarily sing in Spanish, receiving the Early Influence Award. Nigerian saxophonist and activist Fela Kuti was inducted as the first African-born solo artist to enter the Rock Hall with the Early Influence Award. Producer Rick Rubin, instrumental in the rise of hip-hop and later working in rock and country, received the Musical Excellence Award.
Late songwriter and producer Michael Melcher, who helped define the Philadelphia soul sound, and producer Arif Mardin, known for his work with numerous soul and rock artists, were also honored with the Musical Excellence Award. Producer Tom Dowd, recognized for his work with 1960s and 70s rock acts like the Rolling Stones, received the Musical Excellence Award posthumously.