Billy Idol, whose hits include White Wedding and the US number one Mony Mony, is also to be inducted, after having been nominated once before.
Unlike Oasis and Iron Maiden, he has spoken about his desire to be included, having told Ultimate Classic Rock, external: “You really get a chance to thank your fans. That’s what I like about it. You know, you get a chance to really thank everybody who supported you through thick and thin. So that’s an incredible honour.”
He appeared in person on last night’s American Idol, performing his song Rebel Yell with Carrie Underwood, one of the show’s judges. It was then announced that he and his long-term collaborator, the guitarist Steve Stevens, had made it into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Speaking to Billboard magazine, Idol said: “I can’t believe it… it’s just been fantastic, being part of this musical revolution we really believed in and to be pushing the culture along.
“It’s been really fun, and a dream come true. And then this is just icing on the cake, just… wow, what an honour! I almost can’t put it into words. To be able to have your peers vote you in and that, it’s pretty special.”
Collins was also pleased with his individual recognition, posting on Instagram, external: “Obviously I’m pleased and honoured to be inducted. It wraps up what has been a wonderful life in music.”
The two non-Brits acts who will be inducted this year are the late soul singer Luther Vandross, who died in 2005, and the hip hop group Wu-Tang Clan.
