RRHOF 2026: A review of the newest ballot

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2026: The newest ballot yet. 

Realistically, there's not a doubt that over 40 years of existence, the Hall continues to recognize and honor the entire history of rock & roll in many different methods. Whether people hate it or not, you must acknowledged that rock and roll isn't all white dudes playing guitar solos, pounding drums and screaming banshees. 

R&R isn't defined by any genres nor instruments, it's a vibe that represents spirit, evolution, attitude and diversity which is a true definition of the term. That's how the RRHOF welcomed artists in all walks of life on earth regardless of their backgrounds and will continue to do so.

Finally, popularity such as sales, fandom & hit records doesn't demonstrate every performer's greatness since it doesn't indicate anything other than people liking them for a short period which doesn't last long. That's not what the Hall is there for. 

What they're actually there for is like I stated previously: To honor rock & roll history. Which means those who left a ton of sesmic effect on it's development and music industry entirely. For instance, remove ones with most impact then everything changes, do the same for others with less then nothing happens. 

So with said, here's my ratings & observations of this year's newest nominees. 

Rating system: 

10/10 = The Stalwarts 

9/10 = No Brainers 

8/10 = Solid Choices 

7/10 = Sure Picks 

6/10 = Above Average 

5/10 = Borderline 

4/10 = Marginal 

3/10 = Mediocre

2/10 = WTF 

1/10 = Short Resumes 

0/10 = Forgotten 

Walk ons & locks: 

Mariah Carey 

7/10 

It's only a matter of time for this vocalist to finally get voted in before she runs out of chances after three nominations unfortunately. Not a groundbreaker for sure, though she does have her moments in her primetime. 

Phil Collins 

6/10

Already inducted with his former band Genesis, Collins is now on his own. There's literally no sheer level shift regarding his overall impact on music & the only thing he can hang is hat on is musicianship. He'll be voted in definitely though it wouldn't be a big deal. 

INXS 

7/10 

They can easily be favored by voters & would precisely be FYN honorees since their stardom is all over the place and it worked for some of their contemporaries in previous years. 

Iron Maiden 

8/10 

With their 3rd appearance on the ballot, chances for these metal mavens seemed to have gotten a bit better given the fact they're an only band from that sound on this year's list. Expect a no show from them come Fall though they're highly deserved. 

Oasis 

8/10 

A recent comeback tour could be finally in the works for this 90's alternative rock outfit. They might not attend the ceremony yet I'll be a interesting fever dream for their rabid supporters. 

Shakira 

7/10 

I literally don't have anything to point out regarding Shakira's first ballot appearance. She has influence on multiple artists, though not earth shattering & revolutionary. She'll have no problem being voted in so quickly. 

Wu-Tang Clan 

8/10 

It seems that rap groups are having a brighter chance for induction these days than solo rappers. With ATCQ & OutKast now in, Wu-Tang Clan will be next in line for the honor. 

50/50: 

Melissa Etheridge 

4/10

She only got nominated all thanks to Sheryl Crow's involvement on the committee and her inclusion will actually mirror her contemporary's. I'll happen whether it's this time or next. 

Lauryn Hill 

8/10 

Yes, she only released one album in her entire career (which doesn't an inductee make except for Sex Pistols) though it's a LP that defined modern generations throughout history. She'll likely be honored this year though I wouldn't go that far yet. 

Billy Idol 

6/10 

I come to notice that appearances at RRHOF ceremonies don't make an inductee even for first time nominations. It could be different from last year for Billy Idol.  

Joy Division/New Order 

8/10 

Innovators who made post punk & new wave an legitimate artform, the continued legacy of two bands in one unity lives through multiple artists trying to be more original with their work. Having said, it's very likely they'll end up getting in as musical influencers instead of performers though only time will tell. 

Luther Vandross 

8/10 

Documentaries often secured nominations (except it doesn't work on occasion) and this year is Luther Vandross. A voice that lasted generations even after his passing, he'll have his posthumous accolade sooner than eventually yet it might not be in 2026. 

Won't be their year, better luck next time: 

The Black Crowes 

4/10 

A band who didn't do anything historically remarkable in terms of true impact on music. Their second nomination is just a participation one, nothing else. Their honor will happen eventually, it won't be this year. 

New Edition 

6/10 

I knew their nomination would be on the horizons. An R&B vocal group with a decent resume & made themselves household names. Not their year, though they will be coming back. 

P!nk 

7/10 

This is a one that would happen anytime though certainly not 2026. She has credentials & is HOF material, though it might not be enough for voters. She'll be back. 

Not a chance & won't be back again: 

Jeff Buckley 

7/10 

This is another example of documentaries securing nominations. Jeff Buckley was a potential talent who didn't make it past 30, yet his music still stands out. With said, an appearance on the ballot wouldn't turn into induction & probably won't have another one. 

Sade 

5/10 

There's no contributions from them that changed the entire landscape of music nor did it make a difference. How they even got their second ballot is a mystery. Expect them not returning anymore. 

And long came final predictions for 2026 RRHOF inductee classes. 

Performers: 

Mariah Carey 

Phil Collins

INXS 

Iron Maiden 

Oasis 

Shakira 

Wu-Tang Clan 

If 8:

Billy Idol or Luther Vandross 

Musical Excellence: 

Devo 

Suzi Quatro 

Lee "Scratch" Perry 

Musical Influence: 

Joy Division/New Order 

John Coltrane 

Memphis Minnie 

Ahmet Ertugun Award: 

Tom Wilson 

Special Guests for this year's ceremony: 

Keanu Reeves 

Metallica 

Adam Levine 

Trent Reznor 

Ed Sheeran 

Kathy Valentine 

Ariana Grande 

Bad Bunny 

Overall, this ballot is so diverse yet so competitive. There's no sure guarantees yet I'll be definitely shocking yet not surprising by Spring. 

Congratulations 2026 nominees & let the games begin! Long live rock & roll!