The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced 17 nominees for its class of 2026, with one of its most widely genre-spanning lists of contenders ever: The Black CrowesJeff BuckleyMariah CareyPhil CollinsMelissa EtheridgeLauryn HillBilly IdolINXSIron MaidenJoy Division/New OrderNew EditionOasisPinkSa., according to Variety Music.
Consequence also noted that mariah Carey, P!NK, Joy Division/New Order, Billy Idol, Jeff Buckley, Sade, and INXS are among this year’s other finalists.
Black Crowes, Jeff Buckley, Melissa Etheridge, Billy Idol, INXS, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, New Edition, Sade, Shakira, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan are also on the ballot. (Rolling Stone)
What This Means Locally
Smooth Operator Sade has earned a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination, a fitting nod for an artist whose soulful sound has long resonated with the sophisticated tastes of Los Angeles. While no specific dates are announced, her enduring appeal makes her a welcome addition to a list that also includes fellow genre-bending icons like Mariah Carey and P!NK.
Last updated February 25, 2026.