Gene Simmons Says Rap Doesn't 'Belong' in Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

The KISS rocker argues hip-hop 'does not speak his language' and should not be inducted into the prestigious music institution.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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In a recent podcast interview, KISS bassist Gene Simmons reiterated his belief that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame should not induct hip-hop artists, saying the genre 'doesn't speak his language' and 'does not belong' in the prestigious music institution. Simmons argued that genres like hip-hop, opera, and symphony orchestras should not be included in the Rock Hall, which he believes should be reserved solely for rock music.

Why it matters

Simmons' comments have sparked a renewed debate about the criteria for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and whether the institution should expand its definition of 'rock and roll' to include other influential musical genres like hip-hop. As one of the most iconic rock musicians of all time, Simmons' views carry significant weight in the industry.

The details

In the interview, Simmons used the examples of KISS being inducted into the Rock Hall in 2014 and Ice Cube's induction as part of N.W.A. in 2016 to illustrate his point. He argued that while he respects Ice Cube and what he has accomplished, hip-hop 'does not speak his language' since he 'does not come from the ghetto.' Simmons also questioned why Led Zeppelin has not been inducted into a 'Hip-Hop Hall of Fame' if the Rock Hall is expanding its criteria.

  • KISS was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
  • Ice Cube was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as part of N.W.A. in 2016.
  • Eminem was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.

The players

Gene Simmons

The bassist and co-founder of the iconic rock band KISS, who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.

Ice Cube

A pioneering rapper and member of the influential gangsta rap group N.W.A., who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.

Greg Harris

The CEO of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, who has defended the inclusion of hip-hop artists in the institution.

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What they’re saying

“Hip-hop does not belong in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, nor does opera, symphony orchestras … it's called the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.”

— Gene Simmons, KISS Bassist (LegendsNLeaders)

“You listen to his music, it is as hard hitting and straight ahead as any metal song … It's a chest punch with a message and with a power and with a rhythm and with a band.”

— Greg Harris, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame CEO (Audacy)

“Rock n' roll is not an instrument. It's not even a style of music. It's a spirit that's been going on since the blues, jazz, bebop, soul, rock n' roll, R&B, heavy metal, punk rock and, yes, hip-hop. Rock n' roll is not conforming to the people who came before you, but creating your own path in music and life. That is rock n' roll and that is us.”

— Ice Cube (2016 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony)

The takeaway

Simmons' comments highlight the ongoing debate around the criteria for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and whether the institution should expand its definition of 'rock and roll' to include other influential musical genres like hip-hop. As the industry continues to evolve, the Rock Hall will likely face increasing pressure to reevaluate its policies and ensure it remains relevant and representative of the diverse musical landscape.