June 17, 2002

BMI Stars at the Head of Song Hall Class of 2002

Some of BMI's brightest stars were among the class of 2002 Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees, honored Thursday night (6/13) at the organization's 33rd annual Induction Ceremony at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers. Legendary BMI songwriters Barry Manilow, Sting, Michael Jackson and Song Hall member Carole King, who received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award, were feted with special performances of their classic songs. Performers included such artists as Joan Osbourne, Heather Headley, Paul Williams, Brian McKnight, Rufus Wainright and Trisha Yearwood. Jackson was unable to attend the ceremony but long time friend Liza Minelli was on hand to pick up his award for him.

BMI songwriter and Johnny Mercer Award recipient Carole King (center) is congratulated by BMI President/CEO Frances Preston, Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman/CEO Hal David, EMI Music Publishing Chairman/CEO Marty Bandier and Songwriters Hall of Fame President Linda Moran

Other inductees included Ashford & Simpson, Randy Newman, Garth Brooks (Hitmaker Award), Stevie Wonder (Sammy Cahn Lifetime Achievement Award), National Music Publishers Association CEO Ed Murphy (Abe Olman Publishers Award) and "You're A Grand Old Flag," written by George M. Cohan (Towering Song Award).

EMI's Marty Bandier, BMI's Frances Preston and Sting

BMI's Frances Preston and Barry Manilow

The Songwriters Hall of Fame was founded in 1969 by songwriter Johnny Mercer and publishers Abe Olman and Howie Richmond. The NAPM/SHOF is also devoted to the development of new songwriting talent through workshops, showcases and scholarships. Over the past 32 years, some key Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees have included Elton John, Bernie Taupin, Stevie Wonder, Brian Wilson, James Taylor, James Brown, Burt Bachrach, Jim Croce, Bob Dylan, Billy Joel and Curtis Mayfield, among many, many others.

photos: Gary Gershoff