Nigerian-born British music icon, Sade Adu, has been nominated for induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame class of 2026, marking her second appearance on the globally recognized ballot.
The 67-year-old Grammy Award-winning singer, widely admired for her smooth contralto voice and timeless classics such as Smooth Operator and The Sweetest Taboo, is among 17 artistes shortlisted for this year’s honour.
Organizers disclosed that 10 of the nominees are appearing on the ballot for the first time, highlighting a broad mix of musical styles and generations represented in the 2026 selection.
Eligibility for nomination requires artistes to have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to consideration.
Final inductees will be chosen through votes cast by over 1,200 artistes, music historians, and industry professionals.
The official list of successful inductees is expected to be unveiled in April, while the induction ceremony is scheduled to take place later in the year.
Sade Adu was previously nominated in 2024. She made history in 1986 as the first Nigerian-born artiste to win a Grammy Award, a landmark achievement that firmly established her as one of the most influential voices in global contemporary music.
