Missy Elliott, Willie Nelson and Sheryl Crow Among 2023 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominees

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has officially revealed its list of nominees for the Class of 2023 — and it includes an impressive eight first-time contenders.

The foundation announced on Wednesday that 14 artists are on this year’s ballot, representing a wide spectrum of sounds, eras, and musical influence. Among the nominees are Sheryl Crow, George Michael, The White Stripes, Missy Elliott, Cyndi Lauper, Iron Maiden, Willie Nelson, Rage Against the Machine, A Tribe Called Quest, Warren Zevon, Soundgarden, The Spinners, Kate Bush, and Joy Division/New Order.

“This remarkable list of nominees reflects the diverse artists and music that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors and celebrates,” said John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation. “Each of these artists created a distinct sound that impacted generations and influenced countless musicians who followed.”

To be eligible, artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years ago — meaning nominees this year must have debuted in 1998 or earlier.

Missy Elliott and The White Stripes earned nominations in their first year of eligibility. Other first-time nominees include Crow, Lauper, Michael, Nelson, Zevon, and Joy Division/New Order.

Next, ballots will be distributed to an international voting body made up of more than 1,000 artists, historians, and music industry professionals. Voters will consider factors such as an artist’s influence, career longevity, and overall body of work.

Fans also have a voice in the process. Public voting is open online daily and in person at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Museum in Cleveland through April 28. The five artists receiving the most fan votes will form a “fans’ ballot,” which will be counted alongside the official ballots.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2023 will be announced in May. The induction ceremony is scheduled for this fall, with the date, venue, and ticket details to be revealed at a later time.

Last year’s inductees included Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, Duran Duran, Eminem, Eurythmics, Dolly Parton, Lionel Richie, and Carly Simon.