Sade joins Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s 2026 class after four decades of music

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 10, 2026

Photo courtesy: RockHall

British band Sade, led by Nigerian-born singer Sade Adu, will enter the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on November 14, 2026, marking another milestone in its four-decade music career.

The group is among eight acts selected for the Performer category this year. The induction ceremony will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California.

Known for its blend of soul, jazz and R&B, Sade has built an international following through songs about love, heartbreak and personal relationships.

Four decades of timeless music

Formed in London in 1982, Sade features lead vocalist Sade Adu, saxophonist Stuart Matthewman, keyboardist Andrew Hale and bassist Paul Spencer Denman.

The group gained international attention with its debut album, Diamond Life, released in 1984.

The album introduced listeners to the band’s distinctive sound through songs such as Smooth Operator and Your Love Is King.

Sade continued its success with Promise in 1985, which featured the hit The Sweetest Taboo.

Later releases included Stronger Than Pride, Love Deluxe and Lovers Rock.

The band’s 1992 album Love Deluxe featured No Ordinary Love, one of its most recognizable songs.

Across six studio albums, Sade has sold more than 50 million copies worldwide.

The group has also earned four Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist in 1986.

Sade among eight performers selected

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announced its 2026 inductees on April 13.

Alongside Sade, the Performer category includes Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, Oasis, Luther Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan.

Other honorees include Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte and Gram Parsons, who will receive the Early Influence Award.

Meanwhile, Linda Creed, Arif Mardin, Jimmy Miller and Rick Rubin will be recognized for Musical Excellence.

Television personality Ed Sullivan will receive the Ahmet Ertegun Award.

The Hall of Fame recognizes artists whose music has influenced generations and contributed to the development of popular music.

Induction ceremony set for November 14

The 2026 induction ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at 7 p.m. Pacific Time.

Organizers will record the event at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

The ceremony will then air on ABC and Disney+ in December.

For Sade, the recognition adds another achievement to a career defined by six studio albums and an enduring influence on soul, jazz and contemporary R&B.