Duran Duran thank fans for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame entry

Duran Duran bassist John Taylor said they never thought of themselves as a rock 'n' roll band, more of an "ongoing art project"

Simon Le Bon has thanked Duran Duran fans for voting the band into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and said they were a "little bit dazed" at the honour.

The new wave group formed in Birmingham in 1978 received the most fan votes out of all the nominated musicians.

"We are humbled and truly elated by the depth of your support, and wish to share this momentous day for Duran Duran with all of you," Le Bon said.

They will be joined in the Hall of Fame by Judas Priest, also from the city.

The bands will be inducted in November, alongside acts including Dolly Parton, Eminem, Carly Simon, and Eurythmics.

Speaking from France on their European tour, Le Bon said the induction was "to my mind the closest thing you'll ever get to a rock & roll knighthood".

"This truly is a special and most valued kind of recognition for our lifetime's dedication to new music," he said.

Duran Duran, who formed in 1978, are currently on tour

Alongside the public vote, the recipients were voted on by more than 1,000 artists and music industry professionals.

The band, also comprising keyboardist Nick Rhodes, bassist John Taylor and drummer Roger Taylor, were one of the biggest acts in the 1980s, with songs such as Rio and Wild Boys.

Judas Priest said their entry into the Hall of Fame represented a "great moment" for heavy metal

Meanwhile, the Hall of Fame noted Judas Priest's "powerful sound emanated from a twin guitar act" and their "soaring operatic vocals".

The heavy metal band, set up more than 50 years ago, will receive the musical excellence award.

Band members said they were "thrilled and honoured".

"This also a great moment for British Heavy Metal, Metal worldwide and our amazing fans who support us and keep flying the flag for Metal and Judas Priest," they added.

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