The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame announced nominees for induction in 2012, this morning. At least five of the 15 nominated artists will be chosen by for induction.

The nominees include:

• Beastie Boys
• The Cure
• Donovan
• Eric B. & Rakim
• Guns ‘N Roses
• Heart
• Joan Jett and The Blackhearts
• Freddie King
• Laura Nyro
• Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Rufus with Chaka Khan
• The Small Faces/ The Faces
• The Spinners
• Donna Summer
• War

“The 2012 Nominees embody the broad scope of what ‘rock and roll’ means,” said Joel Peresman, President and CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation. “From vocal groups to hip hop, from singer-songwriters to hard rocking artists, this group represents the spirit of what we celebrate at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.”

Solo artists or bands become eligible for nomination 25 years after the release of their first single or album. The Beastie Boys, Donovan, Red Hot Chili Peppers, War, Donna Summer and Laura Nyro have all received prior nominations, but did not get selected for induction. More than 500 ballots are sent out to voters who select the artists.

The 27th annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held April 14, 2012 in Cleveland. For more information about the bands and the event, including ticket information, visit rockhall.com.