Fela Anikulapo-Kuti Set For Historic Induction Into Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

Late Nigerian music legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti is set to receive another major international recognition after being selected for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2026 Early Influence category.

Fela is among five musicians chosen for the category, alongside American rapper Queen Latifah, Cuban singer Celia Cruz, rapper MC Lyte and American singer-songwriter Gram Parsons.

The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on Saturday, November 14, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, United States, bringing together musicians, entertainment industry figures and other notable personalities.

Other artistes selected for the 2026 Performer category include Sade, Oasis, Billy Idol, Wu-Tang Clan, Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order and the late Luther Vandross.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, based in Cleveland, Ohio, selected the inductees through a voting process involving more than 1,000 musicians, historians and professionals from the music industry.

However, several of the honourees are expected to miss the ceremony due to personal commitments, touring schedules and other circumstances.

British-Nigerian singer Sade Adu’s group, Sade, has confirmed that its members will not attend the event, although they expressed appreciation for the recognition.

In a statement published on the group’s website, they said, “Sorry we can’t be there in person to celebrate with the other artists. Please know that our absence takes nothing away from how much this recognition means to us.”

Oasis brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher have also indicated that they will not attend. Noel is expected to perform in London, while Liam had earlier criticised the institution and later told a fan on X that travelling to Los Angeles for the ceremony was too much trouble.

Heavy metal band Iron Maiden will equally miss the event because of its ongoing tour in Australia.

Phil Collins, known for popular songs including In the Air Tonight and Sussudio, is also expected to be absent due to health challenges that have affected his ability to perform.

Meanwhile, the joint induction of Joy Division and New Order is expected to attract attention during the ceremony. New Order was formed following the death of Joy Division’s lead singer, Ian Curtis, in 1980. The group subsequently became a major force in alternative dance music, releasing hit songs such as Blue Monday, True Faith and Bizarre Love Triangle.

However, it remains unclear which members of the two groups will attend or whether New Order will perform at the event.

American hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan could also use the occasion as an opportunity for a reunion following the conclusion of a tour the group described as its last, although its members do not always appear together at public events.

British singer Billy Idol, on the other hand, is widely expected to attend the ceremony. Ahead of his induction, Los Angeles declared Friday, November 13, as Billy Idol Day in recognition of his contributions to music.

Idol rose to prominence through the British punk music scene before establishing a successful solo career with songs including Dancing With Myself. Reacting to his selection, he described the recognition as “a tremendous honour.”

According to Bush Radio Academy, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame requires artistes to have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before becoming eligible for nomination.

Fela’s selection in the Early Influence category further recognises his lasting impact on music and his contribution to the development of sounds that have influenced generations of artistes around the world.