Singer-songwriter James Taylor will be honored with the American Society of
Composers, Authors and Publishers' (ASCAP) Founders Award during the
19th annual presentation of its Pop Music Awards on May 20 at the Beverly
Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA. This prestigious award is given to pioneering
songwriters who have made exceptional contributions to music.
"James Taylor is a truly defining American musical voice — as both a singer and
songwriter,'' said lyricist Marilyn Bergman,
ASCAP president and board chairman. "Since his breakthrough with 'Fire and Rain,'
he has
succeeded in translating the personal into the universal with eloquence and beauty, to
the
delight of millions of fans worldwide. His modest manner belies the fact that he has
been
and remains a major musical force for decades. We are proud to honor him with the
ASCAP Founders Award."
Previous award recipients include Joni Mitchell, Stevie
Wonder,
Stephen Sondheim, Billy Joel, Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, Burt Bacharach and Hal
David,
Andre Previn, Steely Dan and Tom Waits.
