Gene Simmons Criticizes Rap Artists in Rock Hall of Fame

KISS co-founder says rap music "doesn't speak my language" and should not be inducted.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Gene Simmons, co-founder of the legendary rock band KISS, recently criticized the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for inducting rap artists, arguing that rap "doesn't belong" in the Hall and that it "doesn't speak my language." Simmons specifically called out the induction of artists like Grandmaster Flash, while noting that influential rock bands like Iron Maiden have yet to be inducted.

Why it matters

Simmons' comments highlight the ongoing debate over the definition of "rock and roll" and which artists should be honored in the Rock Hall. As the music industry continues to evolve, there are differing views on whether the Hall should strictly focus on traditional rock acts or expand to recognize the influence of other genres like hip-hop.

The details

In an interview, Simmons expressed his confusion over why rap artists have been inducted into the Rock Hall, while iconic rock bands like Iron Maiden remain excluded. He said he had a "back-and-forth" with Ice Cube about the issue, with Cube arguing the Hall is more about the spirit of rock rather than the sound. However, Simmons fired back, suggesting rap is more "spoken-word art" than true music. While Simmons said he respects the success of hip-hop, he remains firm in his belief that the Rock Hall should focus on traditional rock acts.

  • The interview with Gene Simmons took place in 2026.

The players

Gene Simmons

Co-founder of the legendary rock band KISS, who has been outspoken about his views on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Ice Cube

Renowned rapper and actor, who engaged in a debate with Simmons over the inclusion of hip-hop artists in the Rock Hall.

Iron Maiden

Iconic British heavy metal band that Simmons believes should be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Grandmaster Flash

Pioneering hip-hop artist who has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which Simmons disagrees with.

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What they’re saying

“The fact that Iron Maiden is not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, when they can sell out stadiums, and Grandmaster Flash is.”

— Gene Simmons, Co-founder of KISS (Legends N Leaders podcast)

“Ice Cube and I had a back-and-forth, and he's a bright guy, and I respect what he's done. It's not my music. I don't come from the ghetto. It doesn't speak my language.”

— Gene Simmons, Co-founder of KISS (Legends N Leaders podcast)

“So Ice Cube and Grandmaster Flash, and all these guys are in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I just wanna know when Led Zeppelin's gonna be in the Hip-Hop Hall Of Fame. Oh, you can't do that? Oh, really?!”

— Gene Simmons, Co-founder of KISS (Legends N Leaders podcast)

The takeaway

Simmons' comments highlight the ongoing debate over the definition of "rock and roll" and which artists should be honored in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As the music industry continues to evolve, there are differing views on whether the Hall should strictly focus on traditional rock acts or expand to recognize the influence of other genres like hip-hop.