BMI is proud to celebrate Black History Month, the annual recognition of Black achievements and their importance in American history and culture. Since its founding in 1939, BMI’s repertoire has been distinguished by Black songwriters and composers across every genre, and we have been truly honored to represent innovators like… Read more...
BMI is saddened by the passing of one of the true jazz giants, Chick Corea, who died this week at the age of 79. Corea, who continued to astound audiences for more than half a century with his unique jazz-rock fusion, was one of the most renowned keyboardists in music… Read more...
BMI proudly congratulates several of our PRS affiliates who license their music through BMI in the United States on their prestigious Ivors Composer Award wins. This distinction celebrates the best new works by UK composers writing for classical, jazz and sound art. Here are this year’s winners. Congratulations to all!… Read more...
In a year like no other, BMI is once again very excited to congratulate its many talented affiliates who received GRAMMY nominations in recognition of their contributions to the year’s most impactful music. As the industry’s highest accolade, the prestigious GRAMMY Awards celebrate the very best in the fields of… Read more...
BMI is hugely proud of its many songwriters who were celebrated at last night’s Latin GRAMMY Awards. Because of safety concerns, the annual event was produced out of multiple locations, but still featured some unforgettable performances, as well as several poignant moments with artists whose music made a lasting impact… Read more...
BMI is saddened to learn that longtime affiliate Gaynel Hodge passed away in Amsterdam on June 2 at the age of 83. An accomplished singer, songwriter, pianist and musical director, Hodge is invariably most renowned for co-writing the multi-platinum hit and doo-wop classic “Earth Angel,” released by The Penguins in… Read more...
BMI is saddened by the passing of renowned composer and orchestrator, Lennie Niehaus. Niehaus is responsible for the scores to two dozen Clint Eastwood films, including the Oscar-winning Western Unforgiven, the Charlie Parker biopic Bird and the searing Bridges of Madison County. Having started out by playing alto sax and… Read more...
BMI is saddened by the passing of Ray Mantilla, the percussionist and bandleader whose six-decade-long career ensured his legacy as one of the most diverse and respected jazz musicians in American music. Renowned for his playing of the congas and timbales, Mantilla added his touch to hundreds of recordings, including… Read more...
The National Endowment for the Arts has awarded two of BMI’s most gifted jazz artists with its highest honor bestowed upon the genre: Bobby McFerrin and Reggie Workman will be named Jazz Masters during the NEA’s April 1-3, 2020, celebration. Renowned for his vocal improvisation using his mystifying four-octave range,… Read more...
BMI is saddened by the passing of tenor saxophonist and jazz great, Jimmy Heath. Having achieved the highest honor bestowed upon a jazz musician, the title of NEA Jazz Master, Heath was known for his lively and playful compositions and arrangements, expertly and seamlessly knowing exactly where and when to… Read more...
