The Rock Hall’s 2026 induction class features Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Sade, Luther Vandross, and Wu-Tang Clan.
CLEVELAND — Earlier this year, Nancy Wilson of Heart advocated for the induction of radio icon Howard Stern into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2026 class.
“I suggest that you all talk about putting him on the special list for this year’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame,” Wilson stated in a February 26 Instagram video. “Howard Stern. Let’s go!”
However, when the 2026 inductees were revealed on Monday night, Stern’s name was absent from the list.
STERN’S POTENTIAL INDUCTION PATH
Given he is not a performer, how might Stern still be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? He would qualify for the Ahmet Ertegun Award, designated for “non-performing industry professionals who have significantly influenced the creative development and growth of rock ‘n’ roll and music that has impacted youth culture.”
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Additional induction categories are:
- Early Influence Award: This award honors artists whose music and performance style have directly influenced, inspired, and evolved rock ‘n’ roll and culturally impactful music.
- Musical Excellence Award: This category recognizes artists, musicians, songwriters, and producers whose unique contributions and impact on music have been profound.
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Following Wilson’s appeal to the Rock Hall, Stern expressed that he was “quite honored” by her remarks.
“So thank you, Nancy Wilson. I was very flattered,” he commented on his SiriusXM show last month. “For me, winning or not is secondary. The fact that someone as amazing as Nancy Wilson, such an incredible guitarist, would even know my name is truly what matters.”
Wilson herself was inducted into the Rock Hall in 2013 as a member of Heart.
What if he were to be inducted someday?
“It would be entertaining because my acceptance speech would be humorous,” Stern remarked last month. “I would ensure it’s funny. I believe it would enhance the television broadcast.”
Stern previously took part in the 2018 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Cleveland, where he had the privilege of inducting Bon Jovi.
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INTRODUCING THE 2026 INDUCTION CLASS
Curious about this year’s inductees? Here are all 18 honorees and their respective categories:
PERFORMER INDUCTEES
– Phil Collins (debut solo nomination; previously inducted with Genesis in 2010)
– Luther Vandross (debut nomination)
– Wu-Tang Clan (debut nomination)
EARLY INFLUENCE AWARD RECIPIENTS
MUSICAL EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENTS
AHMET ERTEGUN AWARD HONOREES
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