Each year, the Library of Congress adds timeless songs and albums considered the "defining sounds of history and culture" to its National Recording Registry. This year's inductees feature some of the most iconic hitmakers in history.
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Award-winning artists Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Weezer and Ray Charles headline a star-studded 2026 class of inductees.
The new inductees into the National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress include Swift's blockbuster 2014 pop album "1989," Beyoncé's 2008 smash hit "Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)," Weezer's self-titled debut album and The Go-Go's groundbreaking debut album "Beauty and the Beat."
The 2026 class of inductees spans 70 years of music and includes records across nearly every genre.
Robert R. Newlen, the acting Librarian of Congress, handpicked the collection of "audio treasures worthy of preservation for all time."
"Music and recorded sound are essential, wonderful parts of our daily lives. And our national heritage," Newlen said in a statement. "The National Recording Registry works to preserve our national playlist for generations to come."
A full list of the 2026 inductees can be found here.
Music Icons React to Being Inducted into the National Recording Registry
Band members from The Go-Go's, a highly successful and influential all-female rock band, reacted to their work being immortalized in the National Recording Registry.
"I feel extremely honored to be part of the American artists who are a part of the Library of Congress," singer Belinda Carlisle said. "It'll be great 100 years from now when someone is doing their research, and they see The Go-Go's in there."
After learning his hit song will enter the Library of Congress, "Feliz Navidad" artist José Feliciano thanked his fans.
"The honor of being added into the Library of Congress National Recording Registry is beyond anything I could've dreamt of. So, from the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you. And everyone who listens to my music. I sincerely love you all," Feliciano said.
