At 6:00 AM this morning (why do they always do it this way?), the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame dropped their nominees for the Class of 2026.  As always, they did so with less than 24 hours’ notice (again, why do they always do it this way?), but nevertheless, chaos, in all forms of Hall of Fame-based institutions, is what we do here.

This year’s 17 acts span musical genres and generations.

The nominees are:

The Black Crowes
Jeff Buckley
Mariah Carey
Phil Collins
Melissa Etheridge
Lauryn Hill
Billy Idol
INXS
Iron Maiden
Joy Division/New Order
New Edition
Oasis
Pink
Sade
Shakira
Luther Vandross
Wu-Tang Clan

We will be discussing these nominees in greater detail on our network of shows.

We here at Notinhalloffame would like to congratulate the musicians nominated.

 

 

 

From the Heartland of America, Melissa Etheridge’s initial efforts drew comparisons to other American icons like Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, and the equally raspy voiced, Janis Joplin. Although, those albums were successful, it was after she disclosed her sexual orientation that she became an icon herself, as her earnestness in her lyrics took on a new level. Musically, she may not have done enough to get into the Hall, but her gender does work in her favor as Cleveland lacks female talent. As the artists she is often compared to, are already inducted, Etheridge’s place in the Hall is very possible.