Sade will not attend their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with the band confirming their absence ahead of this weekend’s ceremony in Los Angeles.
The group, made up of singer Sade Adu, bassist Paul Denman, saxophonist and guitarist Stuart Matthewman, and keyboard player Andrew Hale, are among the artists being honoured at the event, which takes place at the Peacock Theater on Saturday 14 November 2026.
A representative for the band confirmed the news in a statement published on Sade’s official website on Tuesday, expressing their gratitude for the recognition despite being unable to attend in person.
Sade issue statement ahead of induction
The statement acknowledged the band’s absence while making clear how much the honour meant to them.
“Sorry we can’t be there in person to celebrate with the other artists. Please know that our absence takes nothing away from how much this recognition means to us.”
The group continued:
“Being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is both a gift and a timely reminder to give thanks, not only to those who voted for us but also every single person who lets our music into their lives.”
The statement also paid tribute to the people who had helped guide the band throughout their career, including manager Roger Davies and the late engineer and co-producer Mike Pela, who died in 2022.
The group added:
“We are indebted to the ones who’ve been with us on this road to get here.”
They signed off as Sade, Stuart, Andrew and Paul, before dedicating the honour to Pela:
“Mike Pela, the fifth Sade… This is as much yours as ours, Mike. Forever our soul mate.”
Oasis also set to miss Rock Hall ceremony
Sade will not be the only major act absent from this year’s induction ceremony.
Oasis are also reportedly skipping the event, with neither Liam Gallagher nor Noel Gallagher expected to attend.
Liam has since addressed his absence in a message on X, saying the journey to Los Angeles was “too far” for him to make for the evening.
Who else is being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
The 2026 class includes a number of major names from across rock, pop, soul and hip-hop.
Alongside Sade and Oasis, this year’s inductees include Billy Idol, Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Joy Division/New Order, the late Luther Vandross and Wu-Tang Clan.
The ceremony will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Saturday 14 November.
