The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) celebrated its long roster of hitmakers at its 34th annual Rhythm & Soul Awards in Los Angeles Thursday evening.
What We Know:
- The event recognized special honorees and the songwriters and publishers of the most performed ASCAP songs of the past year on the R&B, hip-hop, rap and gospel charts, according to Rolling Out.
- Cardi B won songwriter of the year. The award recognizes the songwriter who has written and co-written the greatest number of most-performed songs of the year. It is worth mentioning that Cardi B has faced a lot of criticism for not writing her own lyrics. In the past, she has claimed that she is more interested in making hits instead of focusing on lyricism.
- Berry Gordy Jr., the founder of Motown Records, and current Motown president Ethiopia Habtemariam took home awards as well. The pair shared the stage as they accepted the ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Heritage Award on behalf of their record label. Motown is currently celebrating its 60th anniversary.
- Tip “T.I.” Harris was the first recipient of the ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award which celebrates an ASCAP member who has had a strong impact on music and culture. After receiving his award from political commentator Angela Rye, Harris spoke about his transition from artist to philanthropist via his nonprofit Harris Community Works. “I have always said that our culture is our greatest asset…I am a proud product of it and a fearless protector of it.”
Click here to see the full list of 2019 winners.
