Legends Honored: Tupac, Janet Jackson, and More Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame 2026
The Recording Academy has announced its latest class of inductees into the Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing recordings of “qualitative or historical significance.” This year’s selections, revealed on February 11, 2026, include cornerstone albums from the catalogs of Janet Jackson and Tupac, alongside works by Selena, Radiohead, and a diverse range of other influential artists.
A Legacy of Impactful Music
Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814 and Tupac’s All Eyez on Me are among the 14 recordings joining the prestigious catalog housed at the GRAMMY Museum. These albums, released over 25 years ago, continue to resonate with audiences and influence contemporary music.
The 2026 class also celebrates the contributions of Alice Coltrane, Bertha “Chippie” Hill, Ella Jenkins, Eric B. & Rakim, Funkadelic, Heart, Lucinda Williams, Nick Drake, The Rouse Brothers, Selena, and The Soul Stirrers. Nine albums and five songs were selected for their lasting impact.
The Significance of the Grammy Hall of Fame
Established in 1973 by the Recording Academy’s National Trustees, the Grammy Hall of Fame serves as a vital link between music’s past and present. The selection process involves a special member committee of experts from all branches of the recording arts, with final ratification by the Recording Academy’s National Board of Trustees. With these additions, the Hall of Fame now boasts a total of 1,179 inducted recordings.
Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, emphasized the importance of recognizing these influential works, stating, “Each selection reflects the creativity, craft and cultural impact that recorded music can carry across decades.” Michael Sticka, President/CEO of the Grammy Museum, added that the Hall of Fame “honors recordings that changed the way we listen, create and connect.”
Celebrating Black Artists’ Contributions
This year’s inductees highlight the significant contributions of Black artists to music history. Nine of the 14 recordings inducted are by Black artists, including Tupac, Ella Jenkins, Janet Jackson, Eric B. & Rakim, Funkadelic, Bertha “Chippie” Hill, and The Soul Stirrers.
The 2026 Inductees: A Complete List
- ALL EYEZ ON ME – 2Pac (Album)
- AMOR PROHIBIDO – Selena (Album)
- CAR WHEELS ON A GRAVEL ROAD – Lucinda Williams (Album)
- DREAMBOAT ANNIE – Heart (Album)
- “JESUS GAVE ME WATER” – The Soul Stirrers (Song)
- JOURNEY IN SATCHIDANANDA – Alice Coltrane (Album)
- MAGGOT BRAIN – Funkadelic (Album)
- OK COMPUTER – Radiohead (Album)
- “ORANGE BLOSSOM SPECIAL” – The Rouse Brothers (Song)
- “PAID IN FULL” – Eric B. & Rakim (Song)
- PINK MOON – Nick Drake (Album)
- RHYTHM NATION 1814 – Janet Jackson (Album)
- “TROUBLE IN MIND” – Bertha “Chippie” Hill (Song)
- “YOU’LL SING A SONG AND I’LL SING A SONG” – Ella Jenkins (Song)
Honoring Ceremony Details
The inducted recordings will be honored at the Grammy Hall Of Fame Gala on May 8, at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, CA. Eligible recipients will receive a certificate from the Recording Academy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Grammy Hall of Fame?
It’s a special award established in 1973 by the Recording Academy to recognize recordings of lasting qualitative or historical significance.
How are recordings selected for the Grammy Hall of Fame?
A committee of experts from the recording arts selects recordings annually, with final approval from the Recording Academy’s National Board of Trustees.
How old must a recording be to be eligible?
Recordings must be at least 25 years old to be considered for induction.
Where are the inducted recordings housed?
They are part of the prestigious catalog housed at the GRAMMY Museum.
Ready to explore more music history? Browse our archive of classic album reviews and discover the stories behind your favorite songs.
