Top 100 Rock Hall Prospects Project: 2026 Update

Who are the most worthy artists eligible for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and who has the most momentum heading into the 2026 season?

It is that time of year again: I am updating my rankings for the Top 100 Rock Hall Prospects Project. It is hard to believe, but this is the sixth year of the project, and I am amazed that it is still a thing. What started as a pandemic project has become one of the things my followers look forward to most each year. It is wild how this has taken on a life of its own.

While these rankings might appear arbitrary at first glance, there are a lot of things I take into consideration when I update this project each year. Rankings in this project are based on cultural impact, influence, longevity, and how closely an artist aligns with the Rock Hall’s historical voting patterns.

From last year’s rankings, the following artists received induction and are now removed from the list: Cyndi Lauper (#3), Outkast (#4), Soundgarden (#8), The White Stripes (#11), Salt-N-Pepa (#15), Warren Zevon (#19), Bad Company (#32), and Joe Cocker (#45). Nobody had Chubby Checker on their radar, including myself, but I am happy to see him finally receive induction and enough votes from the larger voting body.

I severely underestimated how quickly The Black Crowes and Phish would make the ballot, and they were officially nominated last year. To cut a long story short, they significantly moved up in this year’s rankings. I debated whether to include Maná on this year’s list but ultimately decided against it. While I appreciate the Nominating Committee’s willingness to give a non–English-language act a shot on the ballot, they did not stand much of a chance. I would be surprised to see them appear on an official ballot again, but stranger things have happened. Nevertheless, I am glad I took the opportunity to dig deeper into their catalog and feel more educated as a music fan.

Now onto this year’s rankings: I added 12 artists—three returns (meaning they appeared on previous iterations of the project) and nine new entries. Two of the new additions debut in the top 25. This year’s additions are all over the place in terms of eras and genres, but they are all artists worthy of being part of the conversation.

If you are comparing this year’s rankings to previous years, you will notice a lot of drastic movement and reshuffling. In other words, what a difference a year makes for many of these prospects and how greatly their chances have increased since the last update.

A quick note: I opted to include the Fugees on the project this year, but I merged them with Lauryn Hill, who has appeared on the project for the past few years. I am not entirely sure which aspect of Hill’s career the Nominating Committee would address first. There have been rumblings that the Fugees have come up in the room recently, but Hill’s iconic solo album is one for the ages. It could go either way, so I wanted to cover my bases. I have done this in similar situations in the past, such as Chaka Khan / Rufus, Gloria Estefan / Miami Sound Machine, and Natalie Merchant / 10,000 Maniacs.

Here are this year’s rankings, along with some short anecdotes and thoughts.

1. Phil Collins

   He dominated the 1980s both as a member of Genesis and as a solo artist. He has been considered by the Nominating Committee but cannot seem to make the final cut. Once he appears on a ballot, he would be a slam dunk for induction. Given his health issues in recent years, this feels urgent, and I would love to see Collins enjoy his flowers while he is still with us. He would become a two-time inductee.

2. Mariah Carey

   The Nominating Committee clearly wants Mariah Carey to receive induction. She has been in the top five of every iteration of this list (including once at the very top in 2022). Simply put, she needs to happen before Beyoncé becomes eligible next year.

3. Coldplay

   I ranked Coldplay #1 last year and received some dissent for doing so. I stand by my belief that they are the most vital rock band of the 21st century currently on the table. They are massive and have the potential to close the ceremony—and, more importantly, sell tickets. The only reason they are not ranked #1 again is because I wanted to shake things up. As of this writing, they have no tour dates scheduled for 2026, which makes this an ideal time to finally nominate them.

4. The B-52’s

   The lack of a nomination for these new wave icons is becoming ridiculous. They have been eligible for over two decades and have yet to receive a nomination, while many of their contemporaries walked right in. After Cyndi Lauper’s recent induction, I believe their name will come up sooner rather than later.

5. Wu-Tang Clan

   One of the most iconic hip-hop groups of all time, Wu-Tang Clan’s magnum opus Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) appears on nearly every reputable greatest albums list and still holds up remarkably well. Most members achieved significant success as solo artists, and their story has been told through countless movies, television shows, and books. Add in one of the most recognizable logos in music history, and they have the potential not only to be the next hip-hop nominee, but to get inducted on their first ballot appearance.

6. Iron Maiden

   I continue to wonder when these metal legends will return to the ballot. Tom Morello wants them in badly, and this is a case where the Rock Hall needs Iron Maiden—not the other way around. Given their aloof reaction to the institution in recent years, I do not expect a side-category induction. Instead, they will likely continue to be nominated as performers until they eventually receive enough votes. They are the worthiest metal band available and the obvious next metal act.

   

7. Diana Ross

   There is a growing feeling that Diana Ross will finally be nominated for her solo career this year. Her song “Upside Down” was featured on the most recent season of Stranger Things (the same show that propelled Kate Bush into the Rock Hall), she headlined Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve last month, and she is embarking on a tour later this spring. She has the potential to become the next two-time inductee.

8. Oasis

   Oasis were nominated the last two years, but they enter the 2026 Rock Hall season with a massive advantage: they reunited. After “hell froze over,” the band performed a series of sold-out shows last summer and fall. The tour grossed over $400 million, drew roughly two million attendees, and became one of the most publicized tours of 2025. Someone on the Nominating Committee will notice those numbers and make an easy case for Oasis to return to the ballot for a third consecutive year. They are the most likely next ’90s band to be inducted.

9. Jethro Tull

   There is an unwritten rule—at least in my mind—that having a truly famous and distinctive band member significantly boosts a Rock Hall case. Ian Anderson is unforgettable as both a performer and a personality. Jethro Tull are the biggest classic rock prospect currently available and would also serve as an olive branch to progressive rock fans. Depending on the ballot makeup, I believe they would be a lock for induction. The band is embarking on a major European tour later this year, which could even allow for a ceremony appearance and performance.

10. Beck

    Beck appeared in the Sly Stone tribute that kicked off the 2025 induction ceremony, serving as a reminder that he belongs in this conversation. He was nominated in 2022 but faced steep competition. Now that more of his ’90s contemporaries have been inducted, the lane is clearer. Beck is one of the most essential artists of the past three decades—an artist who defied genre expectations while consistently making excellent music. I would love to see him return to the ballot.

11. The Monkees

    Following the inductions of Joe Cocker and Chubby Checker last year, The Monkees feel like the next logical ’60s act to receive serious consideration. They could easily make it in on their first nomination. Micky Dolenz is the last living Monkee and will be embarking on a tour later this year.

12. Dr. Dre

    I took some heat for placing Dr. Dre in the top ten last year, but I stand by it. He is one of the most deserving eligible artists. Dre will almost certainly be the first two-time hip-hop inductee considered—it is simply a matter of when, not if.

    

13. Joy Division / New Order

    They were nominated for the second time last year and feel like the next ’80s alternative/new wave act the Hall wants to usher in. It was recently announced that the first official podcast dedicated to the histories of both bands is forthcoming, with all members participating alongside numerous high-profile interviewees. That level of cooperation is a strong sign they could perform together if inducted.

14. Billy Idol

    He was nominated last year, and it was surprising to see him miss the cut. Several developments are working in his favor: a new documentary (Billy Idol Should Be Dead) and his song “Dying to Live” was shortlisted for Best Original Song at this year’s Oscars. I expect him to be back in the mix soon.

15. Smashing Pumpkins

    Arguably the biggest ’90s rock band yet to receive a nomination. I am unsure how high a priority they are for the Nominating Committee, but they will eventually come up. Their recent collaboration with Yungblud on a new version of “Zombie” helps keep them culturally visible.

16. Snoop Dogg

    Snoop had a bumpy 2025 due to various controversies (a quick glance at his Wikipedia page provides the details). Had those not occurred, he would likely still sit in the top ten. Even so, the Nominating Committee may choose to look past that and nominate him in 2026.

17. De La Soul

    Not much has changed since last year, but it has been widely reported that both Alan Light and Questlove are actively campaigning for their nomination.

18. Bryan Adams

    He participated in both the opening and closing segments of last year’s induction ceremony. One of the biggest MTV stars of the 1980s, he maintained his popularity well into the ’90s and beyond. He has a legitimate chance to make the ballot this year.

    

19. Sinéad O’Connor

    Arguably the most important female alternative rock artist not yet inducted. She was nominated in 2024, and there has been a noticeable groundswell of tributes and critical reassessments since her death in 2023. A biopic currently in development could further boost her chances of another nomination.

20. INXS

    If the Nominating Committee wants a populist new wave act that will resonate with voters, look no further. Hits, longevity, and name recognition are all on their side. Maybe I am biased because some of my friends want them in—but they deserve it.

21. The Guess Who

    The highest-ranked act on this year’s update to have never appeared on the project beforehand. Several factors are working in their favor: Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings recently regained the rights to their catalog and will embark on a tour together later this year. Add in the double-digit number of songs still in heavy rotation on classic rock radio, and their chances for a nomination feel stronger than ever.

22. Devo

    It feels like Devo is having a moment again. Their Netflix documentary was well received, and they recently wrapped up a tour with fellow new wave icons The B-52’s. They have been nominated three times over the last decade, though all of those came when voters could only select five artists. Devo feels like an act that would benefit greatly now that voters can choose seven nominees.

23. Phish

    They were nominated last year and finished #1 in the fan vote. While it was not surprising that they ultimately did not make the cut, the Rock Hall knows that Phish moves tickets thanks to their rabid fanbase. Their iconoclastic nature both helps and hurts their case, but they still have a lot working in their favor.

24. Sade

    Nominated once in 2024 on an incredibly competitive ballot, Sade feels like an artist who will inevitably come back into the conversation. Their next nomination will likely come on a less crowded ballot—one where their influence, elegance, and longevity can shine through more clearly.

    

25. Tom Jones

    He feels like a perfect fit for the “legend” slot occupied in recent years by artists such as Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Cher, and Chubby Checker. What stands out most is his longevity: he began recording in the mid-1960s and continues to release music and perform today. He has had multiple reinventions and dabbled in nearly every genre imaginable. Rarely mentioned in Rock Hall conversations, he is exactly the kind of artist who would resonate with voters—and the fact that he is still with us only helps.

26. Lenny Kravitz

    Nominated once in 2024, Kravitz feels like someone who could reappear on the ballot sooner rather than later. While there has not been a massive momentum shift since his last nomination, his upcoming role as a voice actor in the next James Bond video game keeps his name culturally relevant.

27. Alanis Morissette

    ’90s alternative female singer-songwriters remain an area where the Rock Hall is severely lacking. Alanis Morissette is one of the biggest names to emerge from the mid-1990s, and Jagged Little Pill remains one of the best-selling albums of all time. She recently wrapped up a Las Vegas residency, and rumors of a new album suggest her profile could rise again soon.

28. Boston

    Following the recent inductions of Bad Company and Foreigner, Boston feels like the next logical arena rock act to be considered. Even on the strength of their debut album alone—essentially a greatest hits collection packed with classic rock staples—they are worthy of serious consideration.

29. Queen Latifah

    She is likely the next female rapper to be honored, though it is possible she is recognized in a side category. She is a household name who has won nearly every major industry award imaginable and has appeared at two induction ceremonies within the last three years. This feels like something that could happen sooner rather than later.

30. No Doubt

    They are coming off the 30th anniversary of Tragic Kingdom and have an upcoming residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas. Gwen Stefani remains one of the biggest breakout stars of the 1990s, and that level of name recognition absolutely matters in Rock Hall conversations.

    

31. The Pointer Sisters

    They feel like a logical next choice if the Rock Hall wants to honor a ’70s or ’80s R&B act. While there is not a ton of visible momentum heading into nomination season, they remain a personal passion pick—and a deserving one.

32. The Smiths

    Morrissey has managed to avoid saying or doing anything particularly questionable in recent memory (at least to the best of my knowledge), so maybe it is time to bring The Smiths back to the ballot after a decade-long absence. Best to do it before “bigmouth strikes again.”

33. TLC

    A massive name in ’90s R&B and pop, TLC are increasingly part of serious Rock Hall discussions. The recent inductions of Salt-N-Pepa and Mary J. Blige bode very well for their chances.

34. Patti LaBelle

    It is frankly shocking that Patti LaBelle is not already in the Rock Hall. She feels like someone who must be inducted in some capacity—but she is not. Still alive, still touring, and still beloved, LaBelle remains an obvious and overdue choice. Who doesn’t love Patti LaBelle?

35. Harry Nilsson

    Joe Cocker’s induction served as a reminder that artists associated with the Beatles still have a fighting chance as performers. Harry Nilsson scored several major hits and was one of the preeminent singer-songwriters of the 1970s. Like his contemporary Warren Zevon, he could be honored in a side category, but this feels like something that could happen sooner rather than later.

36. Gloria Estefan / Miami Sound Machine

    Last year’s nomination of Maná was a refreshing attempt to recognize an act outside the English-speaking world, though the competition proved steep. If the Rock Hall wants to revisit that lane with a more recognizable name, Gloria Estefan fits perfectly. She would resonate more strongly with voters—and it would be an absolute blast to see her perform a medley of her hits at the ceremony.

    

37. Motörhead

    Nominated once in 2020, Motörhead remain one of the biggest snubs in hard rock history. With Phil Campbell touring later this year to celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary, their name could re-enter the conversation.

38. Lauryn Hill / Fugees

    In recent years, Lauryn Hill has appeared on this list as a solo artist, but there has been growing chatter that the Fugees have come up in Nominating Committee discussions. It is difficult to predict which aspect of Hill’s career will be addressed first, but either path feels increasingly plausible.

39. Tears for Fears

    They appear to be having another moment thanks to “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” being featured in the Oscar contender Marty Supreme. If inducted, I would not be shocked to see Timothée Chalamet do the honors—and ceremony producers are surely salivating at the idea.

40. Sarah McLachlan

    The success of Hulu’s Lilith Fair documentary has propelled Sarah McLachlan back into the public consciousness. A steady stream of interviews and retrospectives over the past year has reframed her legacy. While some of her ’90s contemporaries may be more influential, McLachlan brings longevity, industry goodwill, and a catalog that has aged extremely well. She remains underrated, and her case deserves more attention.

41. Linkin Park

    They are newly eligible for the Prospects Project after being snubbed in their first year of eligibility. Hybrid Theory, a Diamond-certified album, continues to sell remarkably well, and the band generated significant press with a new singer at the helm. While they may not be an immediate priority, I would expect Linkin Park to appear on a ballot within the next five years.

42. Sting

    Many balked at Sting’s nomination a decade ago, but I still contend that he is worthy of a second induction. His solo work is vastly different from anything he did with The Police and deserves more attention than it currently receives. Beyond his catalog, Sting is exactly the type of artist who would dominate headlines when nominations—and potential classes—are announced.

    

43. Alice in Chains

    Jerry Cantrell’s participation in the Soundgarden segment at last year’s induction ceremony certainly helps put Alice in Chains back into serious consideration. They remain the only band from the “Big Four” grunge acts not inducted into the Rock Hall. While other ’90s bands may get there first, Alice in Chains will absolutely be considered down the line.

44. Selena

    Selena has appeared on the Prospects Project several times, and she has been in the press quite a bit lately. A new Netflix documentary about her life and career received favorable reviews, and the Grammy Museum will honor her with an exhibit next month. Her popularity has remained remarkably steady, and her role in bringing Spanish-language music to the U.S. mainstream cannot be overstated.

45. The Black Crowes

    Despite appearing on the Prospects Project multiple times, I had never ranked The Black Crowes higher than #90 before last year. Their nomination made sense: a new Grammy-nominated album, consistent touring, and participation in the Fire Aid benefit show (which includes Rock Hall involvement). Chris Robinson also appeared in both the Bad Company and Joe Cocker segments at last year’s induction ceremony, and the band has another new album arriving this spring. I would not be shocked to see them nominated again.

46. Luther Vandross

    Several things are working in Luther Vandross’ favor. His HBO documentary was a success, Kendrick Lamar named a hit song after him, and his debut album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame last year. While he could conceivably receive a Musical Excellence Award for his behind-the-scenes work, Vandross deserves to be nominated and inducted as a performer. One of the biggest R&B snubs of the ’80s.

47. Pixies

    The Rock Hall has placed significant emphasis on ’90s alternative acts but has barely scratched the surface of the ’80s. Pixies are one of the most essential bands of that decade and deserve serious consideration. I can see them randomly appearing on a ballot someday, even if their chances with this populist-leaning voting body remain slim.

48. Tori Amos

    She recently announced a new album and tour later this year. A critically acclaimed and beloved ’90s-era artist, Tori Amos feels like someone who could quietly pop up on a ballot at any time.

    

49. Eric B. & Rakim

    Nominated twice, in 2012 and 2024, Eric B. & Rakim remain firmly on the committee’s radar. They could appear on another ballot or ultimately receive recognition via a side-category induction.

50. Melissa Etheridge

    Sheryl Crow—now a member of the Nominating Committee—said in an interview last year that she hopes her friend and collaborator Melissa Etheridge will be inducted. It is easy to forget just how big Etheridge was in the 1990s, and she continues to receive steady press. She is exactly the kind of artist beloved by the industry with the name recognition to land on any ballot.

51. Roberta Flack

    Roberta Flack passed away last year, but her legacy has been widely revisited since then. One of the most talented and influential artists in pop and R&B over the last half-century, Flack has been the subject of numerous retrospectives and tributes. She was also inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame last fall.

52. Jane’s Addiction

    One of the worthiest rock bands eligible for induction, Jane’s Addiction have been nominated twice (2017 and 2024) and have heavy-hitting supporters on the committee in Tom Morello and Dave Grohl. Unfortunately, the fallout from their onstage altercation in Boston—leading to yet another breakup—does not bode well for a near-term return to the ballot. It is a shame, given their vital role in shaping alternative rock in the late ’80s and early ’90s.

53. Tracy Chapman

    An essential artist who helped usher in the second wave of singer-songwriters in the late 1980s. Chapman gave a rare interview to The New York Times last year, and her self-titled debut was reissued on vinyl to strong reception. She was also heavily featured in the recent Lilith Fair documentary, where fellow artists repeatedly sang her praises.

54. Thin Lizzy

    Maybe it is just me, but Thin Lizzy’s music feels increasingly present in the wild. Songs like “The Boys Are Back in Town” and “Jailbreak” remain classic rock staples that still sound fresh. Nominated once in 2020, they are among the last remaining classic rock acts that truly deserve induction.

    

55. Huey Lewis and the News

    If the Rock Hall continues to honor populist ’80s artists, Huey Lewis and the News will eventually be part of the conversation. They were massive in their era, and their songs remain omnipresent across popular culture. Notably, Huey Lewis is the only non–Rock Hall inductee featured on the poster for The Greatest Night in Pop documentary.

56. Ice-T

    Like LL Cool J and Queen Latifah, Ice-T is perhaps better known today as an actor, but his musical legacy is foundational. He played a key role in bringing hip-hop into the mainstream and carries legitimate metal and rock credibility as well. A very worthy candidate who has already shown up to induct others.

57. New York Dolls

    It is unfortunate that none of the original members of the New York Dolls are still alive to enjoy a future induction. I thought their moment might come last year following David Johansen’s death, but it did not materialize. Like their proto-punk contemporaries MC5, the Dolls feel destined for a side-category induction.

58. Fela Kuti

    He will receive a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award later this year, becoming the first African musician to do so. Nominated twice in 2021 and 2022, I suspect there is still enough support within the committee for a third nomination.

59. Usher

    Rock Hall chairman John Sykes name-dropped Usher in a Vulture interview when discussing future prospects, and that alone significantly boosts his chances. One of the biggest pop and R&B stars of the new millennium, Usher remains active—and hearing “Yeah!” at an induction ceremony would be an absolute blast.

60. Meat Loaf

    Following Joe Cocker’s induction, the Rock Hall may look toward another powerhouse vocalist with an iconoclastic reputation. Love him or hate him, Meat Loaf released one of the most commercially successful albums of all time with Bat Out of Hell. He was a massive rock star in his prime, staged several comebacks, and remains a permanent fixture on classic rock radio.

61. Sonic Youth

    Kim Gordon will release a new solo album later this year and recently appeared in a rare acting role in Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut, The Chronology of Water. Sonic Youth’s influence looms large over alternative and indie rock, even if the Rock Hall has yet to fully embrace that genre.

    

62. Barry White

    An R&B legend with a truly one-of-a-kind voice, Barry White is often overlooked in Rock Hall conversations but remains very worthy. He enjoyed remarkable longevity, with albums consistently going gold and platinum well into the 1990s. There is not much visible momentum pointing toward a nomination, but he would be a very welcome surprise.

63. Styx

    Another classic rock band long lampooned by critics but massively successful in their heyday. Styx racked up huge album sales, delivered a string of enduring hits still heard on classic rock radio, and featured band members recognizable even to casual fans. They will be touring with Chicago later this year.

64. The Bangles

    One of the few all-female bands to achieve massive mainstream success. Susanna Hoffs is widely respected and has collaborated with numerous Rock Hall inductees over the years. As an MTV-era act with lasting visibility, The Bangles could plausibly land on a future ballot.

65. Pink

    It is hard to believe, but Pink became eligible for the Rock Hall just last year. Since debuting in 2000, she has enjoyed an extraordinary run as one of the premier pop and rock vocalists of the 21st century. She was nominated for the Songwriters Hall of Fame last year and previously inducted Dolly Parton into the Rock Hall in 2022. She will absolutely come up for consideration sooner rather than later.

66. War

    Nominated three times (2009, 2012, and 2015), War occupy a rare space straddling R&B and classic rock. Their induction would also make Eric Burdon a two-time inductee. The band received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame last year, keeping their legacy in the public eye.

67. Mötley Crüe

    At one point, Mötley Crüe ranked #1 on the Rock Hall’s fan vote kiosk. They are arguably the last remaining hair metal band truly worthy of induction and should appear on a ballot at some point. They are also one of the rare bands where most music fans can name every member—a small but telling detail.

    

68. Shakira

    One of the biggest touring artists on the planet, Shakira remains a global superstar. She recently contributed a new song to the Zootopia 2 soundtrack, further cementing her pop-cultural relevance. A nomination may still be a few years away, but her stature is undeniable.

69. Daft Punk

    Daft Punk are unquestionably important, though there is little momentum pointing toward a nomination this year. Still, Fortnite’s release of The Daft Punk Experience, featuring their music and iconography, shows how enduring their influence remains—even after retirement.

70. Weezer

    Weezer will eventually come up—it is simply a matter of when the Nominating Committee feels the timing is right. The band is currently working on a mockumentary starring Keanu Reeves, which should be interesting, to say the least, and keeps them culturally visible.

71. Jeff Buckley

    The recent HBO documentary did an excellent job contextualizing Jeff Buckley’s life, career, and legacy. Grace, the only studio album released during his lifetime, remains one of the most acclaimed albums ever and continues to sell well on vinyl and streaming. His catalog may be slim, but his cultural impact is enormous.

72. Kenny Loggins

    It is easy to overlook Kenny Loggins, but he has been a major presence in popular music for nearly half a century. Hit singles, soundtrack dominance, and remarkable longevity across multiple eras make him more than worthy of Rock Hall consideration. He was just announced as a Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee this year.

73. Aaliyah

    One of the defining R&B and pop stars of the late 1990s and early 2000s, Aaliyah’s life and career were tragically cut short. Her influence remains strong, and her legacy continues to grow. Mattel releasing a Barbie in her honor last year speaks volumes about her lasting cultural impact.

    

74. Culture Club

    A massive MTV-era act with a catalog of songs that still resonate today. Boy George’s fame and cultural footprint transcend the band itself. A forthcoming documentary directed by Alison Ellwood—who previously directed Rock Hall–boosting films on The Go-Go’s and Cyndi Lauper—could similarly elevate Culture Club’s chances.

75. D’Angelo

    The death of D’Angelo last year was deeply sad. His catalog may be relatively small, but its quality is unimpeachable. Questlove, a frequent collaborator, could eventually champion his cause. With D’Angelo, it has never been about quantity—it has always been about brilliance.

76. Scorpions

    Hailing from Germany, the Scorpions are one of the most successful hard rock bands of all time, with a string of global hits. They are celebrating their 60th anniversary this year, touring, and have a biopic in development. If the Rock Hall wants to extend an olive branch to metal and hard rock fans, Scorpions make a strong case.

77. Pet Shop Boys

    There is no clear momentum toward a nomination at the moment, but Pet Shop Boys remain one of the most vital pop duos since the 1980s. They are embarking on a series of shows across Europe and South America starting next month, keeping their profile strong.

78. King Crimson

    There are rumblings that King Crimson may be recording their first new album in over two decades, though reports remain conflicting. Regardless, they are among the most influential and innovative bands in rock history. Robert Fripp belongs in the Rock Hall in some form, whether as a performer or otherwise.

79. The Replacements

    Stranger Things actor Finn Wolfhard is developing a biopic about The Replacements and recently wore a band shirt while hosting Saturday Night Live, nodding to their infamous performance on the show four decades ago. That kind of renewed cultural attention could quietly help their case.

    

80. Tool

    There are indications that Tool may begin working on their first album in almost a decade. Whatever Tool does tends to become an event, and new activity could eventually help put them on the Rock Hall’s radar.

81. Herbie Hancock

    Last year, Herbie Hancock won the prestigious Polar Music Prize and performed with Cynthia Erivo during a tribute segment at the Grammys. He will also be touring this year—there is even a chance I may catch one of his shows in May. A legend whose continued visibility keeps him in the conversation.

82. Big Star

    Their legendary debut album, #1 Record, was added to the Grammy Hall of Fame last year, which certainly helps. At this point, Big Star would most likely be honored via a side category, but their influence on alternative and power pop music is undeniable and far-reaching.

83. Carpenters

    A major name in 1970s pop who deserve more Rock Hall consideration. Karen Carpenter was a singular, angelic talent with one of the greatest voices of any era. Richard Carpenter’s recent nomination to the Songwriters Hall of Fame also boosts their overall case.

84. Black Flag

    With a new singer at the helm, Black Flag played their first show in several years—an event significant enough to warrant coverage in The New York Times. Of all the hardcore punk bands eligible, Black Flag sit firmly at the top of the list.

85. Björk

    Björk has remained in the public eye through her political and social activism and released a concert film on Apple TV+ last year. Her artistic importance is unquestionable, even if Rock Hall momentum remains unclear.

    

86. Tommy James and the Shondells

    They appeared on the first two iterations of the Prospects Project, and the recent inductions of ’60s acts like Chubby Checker and Joe Cocker provide a bit of renewed hope. Yes, they are primarily a singles band—but those singles are deeply embedded in pop culture. Tommy James is still alive and could appear and perform if inducted.

87. The Cranberries

    Not much has changed to significantly boost their Rock Hall prospects, though “Linger” entering Spotify’s Billions Club last year helped reinforce their enduring popularity.

88. Siouxsie and the Banshees

    Goth and post-punk icons whose influence on alternative music remains immense. They deserve far more Rock Hall consideration than they have received to date. Original drummer Kenny Morris passed away this week at age 68.

89. Ben E. King

    This would be a posthumous second induction for King, who entered the Rock Hall as a member of The Drifters in 1988. He has two of the most iconic songs in popular music history—“Stand by Me” and “Spanish Harlem.” Either song alone could justify his inclusion.

90. Fiona Apple

    She released her first new song in five years last year. Like Björk, Apple has remained highly visible through political activism, and her name continues to surface regularly in cultural conversations.

91. Rick James

    There is no clear momentum pointing toward a Rock Hall nomination, but Rick James was one of the biggest and most influential R&B artists of the 1980s.

    

92. Shania Twain

    A true music superstar who helped bring country music fully into the contemporary pop mainstream. She is currently finishing her next studio album, which is expected to be released next year.

93. Don Henley

    As a solo artist, Don Henley was as big as nearly any male rock star of the 1980s. “The Boys of Summer” remains one of the defining songs of the decade. It is not hard to imagine his longtime manager, Irving Azoff, eventually pushing for Henley’s second induction.

94. Bikini Kill

    Kathleen Hanna hosts a podcast sponsored by the Rock Hall—a detail that immediately boosts Bikini Kill’s chances. If any act from the Riot Grrrl movement receives recognition, Bikini Kill feel like the clear choice.

95. Britney Spears

    A pop superstar whose Rock Hall case will grow stronger once more of her contemporaries—especially in pop—are inducted. It will be an uphill battle requiring multiple nominations, but her impact on 21st-century pop music is undeniable.

96. Nas

    One of the most critically acclaimed and respected hip-hop artists of the 1990s. While several peers may come before him, Nas will be nominated eventually. His recent fellowship named in his honor at Harvard University only adds to his prestige.

97. 10,000 Maniacs / Natalie Merchant

    I first included 10,000 Maniacs and Natalie Merchant on last year’s rankings and stand by that decision. Merchant was one of the defining female voices of alternative rock in the late ’80s and early ’90s and went on to a successful solo career. A recent wave of retrospectives and her live performances last year suggest their legacy remains very much alive.

    

98. Stone Temple Pilots

    A hugely popular ’90s rock band with a deep catalog of hits. Scott Weiland’s fame and notoriety would be a major driver behind any potential nomination. While the committee may prioritize other ’90s bands first, this feels like something that could happen within the next decade.

99. Destiny’s Child

    With Beyoncé becoming eligible as a solo artist next year, the Nominating Committee will almost certainly move quickly to nominate her. Unfortunately, that does not bode well for Destiny’s Child, despite their strong case. In a perfect world, Beyoncé would be a two-time inductee—but that outcome feels increasingly unlikely.

100. PJ Harvey

     An indie rock legend and one of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of her generation. PJ Harvey is someone I hope receives more serious Rock Hall consideration. With a new album and book arriving later this year, perhaps her moment is closer than it appears.

New Entries in 2026:

• #21 - The Guess Who

• #25 - Tom Jones

• #35 - Harry Nilsson (Re-Entry)

• #41 - Linkin Park

• #44 - Selena (Re-Entry)

• #60 - Meat Loaf

• #65 - Pink

• #71 - Jeff Buckley

• #76 - Scorpions

• #86 - Tommy James and the Shondells (Re-Entry)

• #89 - Ben E. King

• #94 - Bikini Kill

See which artists ranked on the Project in previous years: 2020/21 (Introduction), 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025

Thoughts? Comments? Leave a reply below!