Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Billy Idol, Queen Latifah, Oasis, Sade, and Joy Division/New Order have been announced as the new inductees into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, along with first-time nominees Wu-Tang Clan and the late Luther Vandross. The reveal was made during the recent episode of American Idol. Eligibility for induction requires artists to have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior. The nominees were chosen through a voting process involving over 1,200 artists, historians, and music industry professionals.
Phil Collins, known for his soft rock style, has earned recognition both as a solo artist with hits like “In the Air Tonight” and “One More Night,” and as a member of Genesis. Sade, a soul-jazz vocalist, is also among the nominees, with popular tracks like “Smooth Operator” and “The Sweetest Taboo.” Wu-Tang Clan, celebrated for their groundbreaking debut album “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” in 1993, were also included in this year’s inductees.
Iron Maiden, a key player in the British heavy metal scene, was nominated for the third time, highlighted by iconic albums like “The Number of the Beast.” Luther Vandross, a prolific artist with hits such as “Here and Now” and “Any Love,” passed away in 2005 but continues to influence modern artists like Kendrick Lamar and SZA.
The upcoming induction ceremony on November 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles will welcome the sounds of Manchester, England, through the inclusion of post-punk pioneers Joy Division and New Order, as well as the Britpop sensation Oasis, led by Noel and Liam Gallagher. Billy Idol, known for his punk-infused pop tunes including “White Wedding” and “Rebel Yell,” will also be honored.
In addition to the performer category, inductees will be recognized under three special committee categories: early influence, musical excellence, and the Ahmet Ertegun Non-Performer Award. The early influence award will pay tribute to Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons; while the musical excellence category will honor Linda Creed, Arif Mardin, Jimmy Miller, and Rick Rubin.
The late Ed Sullivan, renowned for his influential TV show featuring numerous musical legends, will posthumously receive the Ahmet Ertegun Non-Performer Award for his significant contributions to the music industry and breaking racial barriers in American entertainment.
Among those who were nominated but did not make it this year are Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, INXS, Melissa Etheridge, Jeff Buckley, Pink, New Edition, and Shakira. Last year’s inductees included Cyndi Lauper, Outkast, Soundgarden, Salt-N-Pepa, The White Stripes, Bad Company, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, Carol Kaye, Nicky Hopkins, Lenny Waronker, Thom Bell, and Warren Zevon.
