Taylor Swift, LL Cool J, and More Nominated for Songwriters Hall of Fame

The 2026 Songwriters Hall of Fame nominees have been revealed, featuring an impressive lineup of artists across multiple genres. Among the nominees are renowned musicians such as Taylor Swift, LL Cool J, Kenny Loggins, Pink, and Sarah McLachlan.

Nominated Artists for the 2026 Class

• Taylor Swift
• LL Cool J
• Kenny Loggins
• Pink
• Sarah McLachlan
• David Byrne (Talking Heads)

In addition to these stars, the ballot includes members of The Go-Go’s—Charlotte Caffey, Kathy Valentine, and Jane M. Wiedlin—as well as Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings from The Guess Who and Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of Kiss. This announcement follows the recent passing of Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of Kiss, who died on October 16 at the age of 74 in New Jersey.

Additional Nominees

The diversity of the nominee list continues with Richard Carpenter of The Carpenters, known for his hits such as “Goodbye To Love” and “Top Of The World.” Other notable nominees include:

• Harry Wayne Casey (KC and the Sunshine Band)
• Boz Scaggs
• Pete Bellotte (disco songwriter)
• Andreas Carlsson (Swedish pop producer)
• Steve Kipner
• Patrick Leonard (Madonna collaborator)
• Martin Page (Starship)
• Kenny Nolan
• Terry Britten and Graham Lyle

Voting Details

Eligible voters must submit their ballots by December 4, selecting up to three nominees from both the songwriter and performer-songwriter categories. The voting includes a notable representation from country and R&B-pop songwriters like:

• Jeffrey Steele (Rascal Flatts)
• Don Williams
• Larry Weiss
• Tom Snow
• Christopher “Tricky” Stewart

Returning Nominees

Several artists are offering their work for another chance at induction. Walter Afanasieff, previously nominated for his collaboration on Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” is among them. Bachman and Cummings from The Guess Who, as well as Bob McDill, known for various country classics, are also re-nominated this year.

About the Songwriters Hall of Fame

Established in 1969, the Songwriters Hall of Fame acknowledges the immense contributions of songwriters to popular music. An artist becomes eligible for induction 20 years following their first commercial release. Previously inducted members include icons such as Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, and Carole King.

The class of 2026 inductees will be announced in early 2026, continuing the tradition of celebrating the art of songwriting.