Luther Vandross, Oasis, Sade Nominated for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

10 first-time nominees among 17 total for the 2026 induction class

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:16am

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A striking abstract composition of jagged geometric shapes and bold silhouettes in high-contrast red and black, conceptually representing the induction of legendary musicians into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.The 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees reflect the institution's efforts to honor a diverse range of musical styles and backgrounds.NYC Today

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced the nominees for its 2026 induction class, and among the 17 total nominees, 10 are appearing on the ballot for the first time. This includes the late R&B legend Luther Vandross, as well as British rock band Oasis and singer-songwriter Sade.

Why it matters

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is one of the most prestigious music honors, recognizing artists who have made significant and lasting contributions to rock, pop, R&B, and other genres. The diverse slate of first-time nominees reflects the evolving nature of the Hall of Fame and its efforts to be more inclusive of a wider range of musical styles and backgrounds.

The details

Among the 17 total nominees, 10 are appearing on the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ballot for the first time, including Luther Vandross, Oasis, Sade, A Tribe Called Quest, Sheryl Crow, and Missy Elliott. The other returning nominees include Iron Maiden, Rage Against the Machine, and Soundgarden. To be eligible, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago.

  • The 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees were announced on April 14, 2026.

The players

Luther Vandross

The late R&B singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s with hits like "Never Too Much" and "Here and Now".

Oasis

The influential British rock band known for songs like "Wonderwall" and "Don't Look Back in Anger".

Sade

The Nigerian-British singer-songwriter acclaimed for her smooth, jazz-influenced R&B sound.

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What they’re saying

“The feeling of the music is always the first thing,”

— Luther Vandross

What’s next

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will announce the 2026 induction class later this year, with the formal induction ceremony taking place in the fall.

The takeaway

The diverse slate of first-time nominees for the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame class reflects the institution's efforts to recognize a wider range of musical styles and backgrounds, ensuring that the hall continues to evolve and remain relevant in honoring the most influential artists across genres.