The third time truly is the charm as the legendary British heavy metal band, and one of the most influential bands in history, Iron Maiden, are taking their rightful place among the legends in the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame.
Despite singer Bruce Dickinson and bassist Steve Harris both publicly decrying the Hall, their manager, Rod Smallwood, issued a statement saying,
“We’d like to thank the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for including us (and former members who were all part of our story) in the 2026 roll call of inductees. Iron Maiden have always been about our relationship with our fans above anything else, including awards and industry accolades. However, having said that, it’s always nice to be recognized and honored for any achievements within the music industry too!
It also seems appropriate for the band to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this year as we continue our 50th anniversary celebrations with our Run For Your Lives World Tour visiting the Americas and beyond. We would also like to congratulate our fellow 2026 inductees and extend our gratitude as ever to our fans for their loyalty, perseverance and support for over 50 years now! See you all, somewhere on tour. ”
The Hall is recognizing 10 current and former members — Bruce Dickinson, Steve Harris, drummer Nicko McBrain, and guitarists Adrian Smith, Dave Murray and Janick Gers, along with former guitarist Dennis Stratton, former singers Paul Di’Anno and Blaze Bayley, and former drummer Clive Burr.
Not to be outdone, on his second nomination, Billy Idol finally gets the nod as well.
“Being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside so many of my heroes and influences is a tremendous honor. And to be inducted alongside my longtime compatriot (guitarist) Steve Stevens makes this all even more special.
“When I first started playing with Generation X 50 years ago, it was purely out of love for the music we were making and the scene that we were lucky enough to be a part of. Nobody, especially me, thought it would take me to where I am today. I’m incredibly grateful to all the people who have been behind me over the years, because none of this would have been possible without them. This honor is for my fans, and everyone who has been on this journey with me, as much as it is for me.”
While the announcement for the Hall was made on American Idol, Billy showed up and did a “Rebel Yell” with Carrie Underwood.
Two truly well-deserved artists, oh, but wait, there’s more. Phil Collins has been inducted, this time as a solo artist. Phil is already in as a member of Genesis, but now his solo career is doing the talking; in fact, you could say there was something in the air tonight with these announcements. Here’s the breakdown of the entire announcement and who’s getting in this year
Performer Category: Artists who have created music whose originality, impact, and influence have changed the course of rock and roll. Three first-time nominees were elected, while the second time was the charm for two, and the third for three others. Here are the eight artists who are headed in:
- Phil Collins – first nomination — eligible for election since 2006, he was inducted as a member of Genesis in 2010
- Billy Idol – second — eligible since 2006, and his guitarist Steve Stevens has also been elected
- Iron Maiden – third — eligible since 2005
- Joy Division/New Order – third — eligible since 2004
- Oasis – third — eligible since 2019
- Sade – second — eligible since 2009
- Luther Vandross (deceased) – first — eligible since 2006
- Wu-Tang Clan – first — eligible since 2018
Early Influence Award (formerly the Musical Influence Award): Artists whose music and performance style have directly influenced, inspired and evolved rock & roll and music impacting culture.
- Celia Cruz – (deceased) – Cuban singer and one of the most popular Latin artists of the 20th century.
- Fela Kuti – (deceased) – regarded as the principal innovator of Afrobeat, a Nigerian music genre that combines West African music with American funk and jazz.
- Queen Latifah
- MC Lyte
- Gram Parsons – (deceased) – member of The Byrds and Flying Burrito Brothers, he’s credited with helping to found the country rock and alt-country genres.
Musical Excellence Award: Given to artists, musicians, songwriters and producers whose originality and influence have had a dramatic impact on music.
- Linda Creed (deceased) – songwriter, lyricist, background singer and record producer who teamed up with Thom Bell to produce some of the most successful Philadelphia soul groups of the 1970s
- Arif Mardin (deceased) – producer and arranger known for his work with The Rascals, Queen, Bee Gees, Hall & Oates, Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick, Ringo Starr, Carly Simon, Phil Collins and many others
- Jimmy Miller (deceased) – producer for The Rolling Stones, Traffic, Blind Faith and others
- Rick Rubin – label executive and producer for Johnny Cash, LL Cool J, Beastie Boys, Run-DMC, Public Enemy, Adele, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Weezer, AC/DC, Aerosmith and many others.
Ahmet Ertegun Award: Given to non-performing industry professionals who have had a major influence on the creative development and growth of rock & roll and music that has impacted culture.
- Ed Sullivan
