(CelebrityAccess MediaWire) —
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) will present Kenny Chesney with the ASCAP Voice of Music Award during the 43rd Annual ASCAP Country Music Awards gala. The invitation-only awards show will take place on October 17 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The event will also honor the songwriters and publishers of ASCAP's most performed country songs of 2004.
The prestigious Voice of Music Award is given to recognized artists and songwriters whose music gives people's lives a voice through song. Chesney joins a select group of four songwriters who have previously received this award: Garth Brooks, George Strait, Diane Warren and Amy Grant.
"Kenny is a unique artist who has the ability to captivate millions with songs that are honest, heartfelt and entertaining," says ASCAP president and chairman of the board Marilyn Bergman. "He is a superstar, yes, but he is a songwriter first."
"Kenny brings a special magic to the stage," says .ASCAP senior vice president Connie Bradley. "When he performs, you feel as if he is your best friend, speaking directly to you through each song. His music celebrates the every day things in life, things we hold dear to our hearts."
The 2005 Country Music Awards will also honor the songwriters and publishers of ASCAP's most performed songs of 2004. Special awards will be given to "Songwriter of the Year," "Songwriter/Artist of the Year," "Song of the Year," and "Publisher of the Year." –Bob Grossweiner and Jane Cohen
