The Songwriters Hall of Fame has unveiled its list of nominees for the class of 2026, and among the distinguished names is global superstar Taylor Swift. The institution, which is dedicated to honoring the craft and legacy of composers and lyricists, announced the contenders on Thursday.
A Stellar List of Performing Songwriter Nominees
Taylor Swift finds herself in the “performing songwriters” category alongside a roster of renowned artists. This group includes Pink, David Byrne, and Kenny Loggins, as well as key members of iconic bands. These nominees feature Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell of America, Richard Carpenter of The Carpenters, Harry Wayne Casey of KC and the Sunshine Band, Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings of The Guess Who, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS, and Charlotte Caffey, Kathy Valentine, and Jane Wiedlin of The Go-Go’s. The category is rounded out by Sarah McLachlan, Boz Scaggs, and LL Cool J.
Recognizing the Writers Behind the Hits
In the “non-performing” category, the Hall of Fame is considering songwriters who have penned major hits for other artists. This list includes Mariah Carey’s longtime collaborator Walter Afanasieff, as well as acclaimed writers like Pete Bellotte, Andreas Carlsson, and Jeffrey Steele. Also nominated are Patrick Leonard, Bob McDill, Kenny Nolan, Martin Page, Vini Poncia, Tom Snow, Christopher ‘Tricky’ Stewart, and Larry Weiss. Additionally, the songwriting duo of Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, who co-wrote the classic “What’s Love Got To Do With It,” are nominated as a partnership.
Eligibility and the Upcoming Selection Process
A songwriter becomes eligible for induction 20 years after the first significant commercial release of their work, provided they have built a catalog of notable songs. The current voting members now have until December 4 to submit their ballots. The final list of inductees who will make up the class of 2026 is scheduled to be announced at the organization’s annual Induction & Awards Gala in New York City.
