The 2016 nominees for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame include several musical talents with ties to Illinois.

Jazz and rock band Chicago released their first album, Chicago Transit Authority, in 1969. Throughout the 70s and 80s, the band gained popularity and followers with their unique blend of rock and roll and jazz elements.

New wave band Cheap Trick, known to many as one of the most influential new wave bands of the 1980s, was formed in Rockford in the 1970s. Since their formation, they have released 16 studio albums, with their most recent album, The Latest, being released in 2009.

Chaka Khan was born in Chicago in 1953 and began her musical career with the group Rufus in the 70s. Some of Khan’s more favorite hits include “Tell Me Something Good” (as a member of Rufus), “I’m Every Women,” and “Ain’t Nobody.” Khan has won 10 Grammy Awards and has been nominated for numerous American Music Awards. 

While born in Milwaukee in the 1940s, Steve Miller moved to Chicago after college, surrounding himself with the top blues talent of the day, including Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and Buddy Guy. Miller formed The Steve Miller Band in 1966 and the group has released 18 albums to date.

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Read more about the 2016 nominees to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame