The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced its list of 17 nominees for induction in 2026, featuring a diverse mix of artists across various musical genres. This year's list is notably larger than last year’s, which included 14 contenders, indicating an evolving and expanding recognition of influential musicians. Among the new names on the ballot are Shakira, Pink, Lauryn Hill, and the iconic hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, all of whom are receiving their first nominations.

Returning to the ballot are seven artists who have previously been nominated but have not yet achieved induction, including Mariah Carey, Iron Maiden, and Oasis. The presence of Oasis, in particular, is noteworthy given the criticism their frontman, Liam Gallagher, directed at the awards last year, suggesting an ongoing conversation about the relevance and influence of the Hall of Fame in today's music landscape. Additionally, the list features prominent artists like Billy Idol and Joy Division/New Order, whose collective contributions to music continue to resonate with both fans and critics alike.

As the Hall of Fame prepares for the voting process, fans and industry professionals alike are already speculating on who might make the cut this time around. The inclusion of such a varied array of nominees reflects the Hall’s commitment to honoring diverse genres and eras of music, emphasizing the ongoing evolution of the rock and roll landscape.