DETROIT, MI — The National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame has announced its 14th class of inductees, all of whom will be honored posthumously at the 2026 Induction Ceremony on Sunday, October 26, 2026. The induction will be livestreamed at www.hofnetwork.tv at 8:00 pm EST.
Since its founding in 2013, the Hall has honored more than 300 legendary artists and cultural figures who shaped the sound and spirit of R&B. The 2025 class continues this tradition with a remarkable lineup of trailblazers:
- Sly Stone – Funk and psychedelic soul pioneer of Sly & The Family Stone
- Rick James – Iconic funk superstar
- D’Angelo – Neo-soul star
- Roberta Flack – Soulful balladeer behind timeless classics
- Angie Stone – Neo-soul trailblazer and member of The Sequence
- Quincy Jones – Renowned producer, composer, and visionary
- Tina Turner – The “Queen of Rock & Roll” with deep R&B roots
- Bobby Womack – Soulful singer-songwriter and guitarist
- Pat Drew – Beloved performer and trailblazer
- Sister Rosetta Tharpe – Gospel-R&B pioneer and “Godmother of Rock and Roll”
- Brenton Wood – Soul singer behind “Gimme Little Sign”
- Frankie Crocker – Groundbreaking radio DJ who revolutionized urban radio
- Bill Withers – Iconic songwriter and soulful voice of Lean on Me and Ain’t No Sunshine
“This year’s class is a powerful reminder of the timeless impact of R&B,” said Founder LaMont ‘ShowBoat’ Robinson. “These legends not only defined generations of music but continue to inspire artists and fans around the world.”
