Fela Kuti And Sade Adu Honored By The Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame In 2026

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced that Sade Adu and Fela Kuti will be recognized for their contributions to music.

The Hall has revealed its Class of 2026, marking a significant moment for Nigerian music with the induction of Fela Kuti and Sade Adu. The announcement includes a diverse lineup of eight performers and several special honorees, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to representing a global musical landscape.

Sade Adu, noted for her unique vocals and numerous timeless hits from the 1980s and 1990s, continues to influence modern artists such as Adele and Drake.

In the Performer category, she will be joined by well-known British rock bands Oasis and Iron Maiden, the influential Joy Division/New Order, and acclaimed solo artists Phil Collins and Billy Idol. The class also includes R&B artist Luther Vandross and the iconic hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan.

In addition to Sade, the category features a prominent group of artists, including Wu-Tang Clan, Luther Vandross, and Phil Collins.

The class is complemented by Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, and Oasis, whose recent reunion has revived interest in the band.

Fela Kuti received the Early Influence Award, recognizing his role as the father of Afrobeat. His blend of highlife, jazz, and funk made a significant impact and challenged political norms.

He is honored alongside other recipients of the Early Influence Award, such as Celia Cruz, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons.

The 2026 class also acknowledges behind-the-scenes contributors through the Musical Excellence Award. This year’s recipients include songwriter Linda Creed, producers Arif Mardin and Jimmy Miller, and Def Jam co-founder Rick Rubin.

An artist must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago to qualify for induction. The ceremony is scheduled for November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.