The Colombian singer Shakira has received her first nomination to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in its 2026 edition, a recognition that places her among the most influential figures in contemporary global music. The announcement was made by the institution behind the Hall of Fame, which each year selects a group of artists whose impact has left a lasting mark on the history of rock and its related genres.
She is part of a list of 17 nominees that also includes major names in the international music industry. In this edition, she is the only Latin artist nominated — a milestone both in her career and in Hispanic representation within this prestigious honor.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: recognition for a global career
This nomination marks a new chapter in Shakira’s career, which spans more than three decades and has reached both Spanish- and English-speaking markets. From her early beginnings in Latin America to her consolidation in the United States and Europe, she has successfully blended pop and rock with Latin rhythms, creating a distinctive style that transcends borders.
Throughout her career, she has sold millions of records and earned numerous international awards, establishing herself as one of the most influential Latin artists of all time. Her ability to reinvent herself musically and connect with different generations has been key to remaining relevant in a highly competitive industry.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recognizes precisely this kind of artistic legacy: Musicians whose work has transformed the musical landscape and influenced other creators. Her presence among the nominees suggests that her contributions to pop rock and her cultural impact meet those criteria.
The voting process to determine the inductees
However, a nomination does not automatically guarantee induction into the Hall. Candidates must go through a voting process involving music industry experts, historians, and artists, as well as the public, who can support their favorites through open voting.
In this context, the singer’s fans will play an important role in advancing her candidacy. Although the popular vote is not the sole deciding factor, it does influence the final decision and can help tip the balance in what is often a highly competitive selection process.
If inducted, Shakira would join the select group of musicians who have left an indelible mark on the history of rock and popular music. While the voting process unfolds, the nomination itself already stands as a symbolic recognition of her artistic legacy and global impact.
List of 2026 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees
The Black Crowes
Jeff Buckley
Mariah Carey
Phil Collins
Melissa Etheridge
Lauryn Hill
Billy Idol
INXS
Iron Maiden
Joy Division / New Order
New Edition
Oasis
P!NK
Sade
Shakira
Luther Vandross
Wu-Tang Clan