Nov 12, 2025 - Music

Here's who might make the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's 2026 ballot

Troy Smith

Three portraits: left, woman with long braided hair and gold hoop earrings blows a kiss; center, person with pale skin, red and blue ribbons in hair, black hat and plaid shirt; right, woman with short blonde hair, oversized brown sweater, pointing toward camera. — (L-R) Alicia Keys, Boy George of Culture Club and Gwen Stefani of No Doubt. Photos: Anthony Barboza; Koh Hasebe/Shinko Music; Mick Hutson via Getty Images

Believe it or not, we're just a few months away from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame releasing its ballot for the class of 2026 in February.

Why it matters: Next fall's ceremony is expected to take place in Cleveland when the museum unveils its $135 million expansion.

Here's are the 14 artists (same as 2025) we think will make the next ballot:

Alicia Keys
Beck
Billy Idol
Boyz II Men
Culture Club
De La Soul
INXS
Iron Maiden
Mott the Hoople
No Doubt
Phil Collins
Selena
The Strokes
Tool

The intrigue: The Rock Hall's nominating committee has emphasized first-time nominees in recent years. We have several, including newly eligible acts The Strokes and Alicia Keys.

The committee has also been keen on artists from MTV's early days and musicians who participate in the annual ceremony or inductee tribute videos.

Zoom in: The only repeat-nominees from our list would be Billy Idol, Beck and Iron Maiden.

Notably absent are 2025 nominees like Mariah Carey, Oasis and Joy/Division, who have been nominated multiple times but failed to gain entry.

Go deeper: Top 25 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame snubs of all time

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Here's who might make the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame's 2026 ballot

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