The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2026 class includes many Black creatives, such as Wu-Tang Clan, Luther Vandross, Sade and more. The honorees span multiple genres and eras, with additional awards recognizing artists like Queen Latifah, Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti and MC Lyte. The induction ceremony will take place Nov. 14 in Los Angeles, with a television broadcast set for December.
Tag: American Idol
Baltimore’s Gabby Samone: From ‘American Idol’ breakout to rising R&B powerhouse
From a Disney performance in 2021 to “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” and now “American Idol” and beyond, Gabby Samone is proving that her story is only beginning. For Baltimore and for fans nationwide, the rise of Gabby Samone is one to watch — a young artist grinding, glowing, and stepping fully into her moment.
Preparation pays off: Duke Ellington grad Jayna Elise delivers the goods as ‘Tina’
Jayna Elise, a graduate of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, recently starred in the lead role of “TINA – The Tina Turner Musical” in Washington, D.C., showcasing her acting and vocal abilities.
Mandisa, Grammy-winning singer and ‘American Idol’ alum, dies at 47
Mandisa, a contemporary Christian singer who appeared on “American Idol” and won a Grammy for her 2013 album “Overcomer”, has died at the age of 47.

