Taylor Swift, Alanis Morissette, and members of Kiss are among the newest inductees into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, which honors the best music creators in history.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame was established in 1969 to honor the creators behind the music that has shaped generations. To be eligible for induction, a songwriter must have at least 20 years of published work with a significant impact on popular music.
Each year, a select group of artists join the Hall of Fame. Let’s take a look at the inductees, year by year.
Before listing all 450+ inductees, let’s answer some common questions about the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
FAQ About the Songwriters Hall of Fame
When was the Songwriters Hall of Fame created?
The Songwriters Hall of Fame (SHOF) was established in 1969 to honor those whose work represents the creative excellence of songwriting across all genres of music.
It was created by songwriter Johnny Mercer and music publishers Abe Olman and Howie Richmond. The first induction class was in 1970.
All types of popular music are represented in the Hall, from early 1900s soft pop to modern rap music, and everything in between, including pop, country, R&B, and dance.
Who was in the first induction class?
The first induction class in 1970 was also the largest, consisting of more than 100 important songwriters throughout history.
Notable figures included legendary composers like George Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Irving Berlin, country music pioneer Hank Williams, folk music pioneer Lead Belly, and modern singer-songwriters like Woody Guthrie.
Some inductees dated back to the 1700s and 1800s, such as “The Star-Spangled Banner” author Francis Scott Key and “Oh! Susana” composer Stephen Foster.
Is there a Songwriters Hall of Fame building that you can visit?
No, the Songwriters Hall of Fame has no permanent home. The Hall does have an administrative office in New York City, but there is no museum that fans can visit in person. There is, however, an online Virtual Museum where you can see exhibits about the inductees.
From time to time, the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles will have an exhibit dedicated to the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Is the annual induction ceremony televised? Can I buy tickets?
The annual SHOF induction ceremony is a glamorous, invite-only event in June featuring live performances and award presentations. While it is not broadcast on network television, highlights often appear online and in entertainment media.
Tickets are generally available by invitation or through sponsorship packages, though occasionally a limited number of public tickets may be offered.
Is there a specific order in which the SHOF inducts people?
No. The Songwriters Hall of Fame seems to induct people in random order, with no rhyme or reason. They’re even worse than the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in this regard.
To cite some examples, the SHOF inducted Toby Keith before Tom Petty. They inducted Cyndi Lauper before Elvis Costello. They inducted Jay-Z before Prince.
The Hall’s presumed intent, based on recent induction classes, seems to be having a diverse class each year that includes songwriters of various ages, genres, races, and genders. That sometimes leads to the unfortunate side effect of newer acts being inducted before iconic artists who came before them.
Who are the youngest inductees in history?
Taylor Swift was inducted at age 36 in 2026, making her the second-youngest person ever to receive the honor. The youngest was Stevie Wonder, who was 33 in 1983 when he received the honor.
Considering the Hall’s 20-year waiting period, getting inducted before age 40 is an incredible accomplishment.
What was the most memorable moment at an induction ceremony?
Perhaps the most memorable was all four members of R.E.M. reuniting. During their induction, R.E.M. reunited on stage to perform “Losing My Religion.”
This was their first performance together with all four members in 15 years. They rarely performed as a foursome after drummer Bill Berry’s departure in 1997.
Another great moment was Paul McCartney showing up to induct Brian Wilson.
Each ceremony is filled with numerous highlights. It’s surprising that they don’t televise the Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony, since it’s usually so star-studded. Read Billboard’s review of the 2023 induction ceremony to see just how many big names performed.
Who’s in charge of the Songwriters Hall of Fame?
Currently, former Chic member and acclaimed guitarist and producer Nile Rodgers serves as the Chairman of the SHOF. He was inducted into the Hall himself in 2016. He earned re-election as Chairman in 2024.
Linda Moran serves as the President and CEO. A bunch of music company executives and accomplished songwriters serve on the board, including Desmond Child and Paul Williams. See the full board of directors here.
Why did it take so long to induct Prince (and other big names?)
The Songwriters Hall of Fame has an unusual rule that in order to be inducted, the recipient must appear in person at the ceremony. If they do not show up, they will not be officially inducted.
In Prince’s case, he was announced as a 2013 inductee, but was unable to attend. The organization stayed in touch to try to coordinate an appearance.
SHOF President Linda Moran said, “He reached out at the end of 2015 and said how important the award was to him and that the June 2016 ceremony could work. We planned that it would be unannounced and a surprise; but unfortunately Prince passed two months beforehand in April.”
Prince was finally posthumously inducted in 2024, with a big fan-attended ceremony at the Target Center in Minneapolis.
The Songwriters Hall does not typically induct songwriters who have passed away at its annual ceremony. Instead, those folks receive a separate ceremony.
The Hall notes, “While the annual SHOF gala does not usually include posthumous inductions for songwriters after their death, the organization hosts its special posthumous inductions at unique venues and events.”
Other examples: Both Snoop Dogg and Sade were revealed as inductees in 2023, but both publicly said they were deferring their induction to a later date.
Apparently, that date never came, because neither ever appeared at a later ceremony, and neither appears on the SHOF’s official list of inductees.
What is the Hal David Starlight Award?
Each year, the Hall chooses an up-and-coming songwriter to receive the Hal David Starlight Award. This allows the Hall to recognize talented new artists who haven’t yet spent 20 years working in the field.
Recent recipients of this award have included Gracie Abrams, SZA, Post Malone, and Lil Nas X. Scroll to the end of this article for a full list of recipients.
What is the Johnny Mercer Award?
The Johnny Mercer Award is given to someone who has already been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. It is essentially a “higher level” honor that is only given to the most prominent and successful members of the Hall of Fame.
Only one person or songwriting team receives this award each year. Recipients have included Diane Warren, Elton John and Bernie Taupin, Lionel Richie, Dolly Parton, Stevie Wonder, and Smokey Robinson.
List of Songwriters Hall of Fame Inductees By Year
2026
- Walter Afanasieff – Renowned producer behind numerous adult contemporary hits, many with Mariah Carey.
- Terry Britten – British songwriter known for chart-topping pop hits like “What’s Love Got to Do With It.”
- Kenny Loggins – Singer-songwriter celebrated for soft rock hits and iconic movie soundtracks, from “Footloose” to “Danger Zone.”
- Graham Lyle – Scottish songwriter behind hits for pop and country artists like “What’s Love Got to Do With It.”
- Alanis Morissette – Alternative rock singer-songwriter whose introspective lyrics shaped ’90s music.
- Gene Simmons – Co-founder and primary songwriter of the glam rock band Kiss.
- Paul Stanley – Singer-songwriter for Kiss, writing many of the band’s rock anthems.
- Christopher “Tricky” Stewart – Hitmaking producer and songwriter across pop and R&B, including “Single Ladies.”
- Taylor Swift – Singer-songwriter acclaimed for storytelling in pop and country music. Youngest-ever female inductee at age 36.
2025
- Bert Berns – Influential 1960s songwriter and producer, known for R&B classics.
- George Clinton – Funk pioneer who reshaped the genre with Parliament-Funkadelic.
- Luigi Creatore – Songwriter and producer behind mid-20th-century pop hits.
- Ashley Gorley – One of country music’s most successful modern songwriters for Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and numerous others.
- Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins – R&B and pop producer and songwriter with a significant hit catalog.
- Tom Johnston – Co-founder and songwriter of The Doobie Brothers.
- Mike Love – Lead singer and songwriter for The Beach Boys.
- Tony Macaulay – British songwriter of classic pop hits like “Build Me Up Buttercup.”
- Michael McDonald – Soulful vocalist and songwriter for The Doobie Brothers and solo act.
- Hugo Peretti – Songwriter and producer known for pop standards.
- Jerry Ragovoy – Influential soul and R&B songwriter.
- Patrick Simmons – Guitarist and songwriter for The Doobie Brothers.
- Donna Summer – Disco icon and songwriter of era-defining dance hits.
2024
- Walter Becker – Steely Dan co-founder known for sophisticated jazz-infused rock songwriting.
- Bill Berry – Drummer and songwriter for R.E.M., contributing to their alternative rock legacy.
- Peter Buck – Guitarist and songwriter for R.E.M.
- Donald Fagen – Steely Dan co-founder and songwriter blending jazz and rock.
- Hillary Lindsey – Country songwriter behind many hit songs.
- Mike Mills – Multi-instrumentalist and songwriter for R.E.M.
- Timothy Mosley (Timbaland) – Producer-songwriter known for innovative beats in R&B and pop.
- Prince Rogers Nelson (Prince) – Genre-defying songwriter and performer across pop, funk, and rock.
- Dean Pitchford – Lyricist behind iconic pop songs and movie hits.
- Michael Stipe – Frontman and lyricist for R.E.M., acclaimed for poetic alternative rock.
- Cindy Walker – Legendary country songwriter of enduring classics.
2023
- Glen Ballard – Songwriter and producer behind major pop albums and soundtracks.
- Gloria Estefan – Latin-pop crossover songwriter with global influence.
- Jeff Lynne – Founder of Electric Light Orchestra and songwriter of melodic rock hits.
- Teddy Riley – Pioneer of the new jack swing sound in R&B.
- Liz Rose – Country and pop co-writer known for emotional storytelling.
- Sade* – Was initially announced as an inductee, but later deferred her induction to a later date, and still has not been formally inducted.
- Snoop Dogg* – Was initially announced as an inductee, but later deferred his induction to a later date, and still has not been formally inducted.
2022
- Mariah Carey – Singer-songwriter known for her vocal range and enduring pop catalog.
- Chad Hugo – Part of The Neptunes, shaping modern pop and hip-hop.
- Ernie Isley – Member and songwriter of The Isley Brothers.
- Marvin Isley – Bassist and songwriter for The Isley Brothers.
- O’Kelly Isley – Founding member and songwriter for The Isley Brothers.
- Ronald Isley – Lead singer and songwriter for The Isley Brothers.
- Rudolph Isley – Co-founder and songwriter for The Isley Brothers.
- Chris Jasper – Keyboardist and songwriter for The Isley Brothers.
- Annie Lennox – Eurythmics co-founder and influential pop songwriter.
- Steve Miller – Rock songwriter known for hit singles with The Steve Miller Band.
- Rick Nowels – Pop songwriter behind many chart-topping hits.
- William “Mickey” Stevenson – Motown songwriter and producer.
- Dave Stewart – Eurythmics co-founder and pop songwriter.
- Pharrell Williams – Producer-songwriter with a broad influence across pop and R&B.
2021
No inductees due to covid.
2020
No inductees due to covid.
2019
- Dallas Austin – Influential R&B and pop songwriter for TLC, Michael Jackson, and more.
- Missy Elliott – Groundbreaking hip-hop songwriter behind “Get Ur Freak On.”
- Tom T. Hall – Country songwriter celebrated for storytelling lyrics.
- John Prine – Folk-country songwriter known for lyrical depth and humor.
- Yusuf (Cat Stevens) – Singer-songwriter with timeless folk and pop classics.
- Jack Tempchin – Songwriter behind classic rock and soft rock hits.
2018
- Bill Anderson – Country songwriter with numerous hits.
- Robert “Kool” Bell – Songwriter and bassist for Kool & The Gang.
- Ronald Bell – Co-founder and songwriter for Kool & The Gang.
- George Brown – Drummer and songwriter for Kool & The Gang.
- Steve Dorff – Veteran songwriter in pop and country.
- Jermaine Dupri – Hip-hop and R&B songwriter-producer for Janet and Mariah.
- Alan Jackson – Country songwriter with enduring chart-topping hits.
- John Mellencamp – Rock songwriter known for heartland-themed hits like “Jack & Diane.”
- James “J.T.” Taylor – Lead singer and songwriter for Kool & The Gang.
- Allee Willis – Songwriter of pop, R&B, and disco hits like “September” and “What Have I Done to Deserve This?”
2017
- Shawn Carter (Jay-Z) – Hip-hop mogul and songwriter with global influence.
- Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds – One of the most successful R&B songwriter and producers in history.
- Berry Gordy – Founder of Motown Records and songwriter of numerous classics.
- Jimmy Jam – Hitmaking songwriter-producer in R&B and pop, most notably for Janet Jackson.
- Robert Lamm – Songwriter for the band Chicago.
- Terry Lewis – R&B and pop songwriter and producer, most notably for Janet Jackson.
- Max Martin – Pop songwriting titan with hundreds of hits, from Backstreet Boys to Taylor Swift.
- James Pankow – Brass player and songwriter for the band Chicago.
2016
- Elvis Costello – Critically acclaimed singer-songwriter blending rock, punk, and new wave.
- Bernard Edwards – Bassist and songwriter for Chic and funk classics.
- Marvin Gaye – Legendary soul songwriter and singer.
- Tom Petty – Rock songwriter known for timeless hits with the Heartbreakers.
- Nile Rodgers – Funk and pop songwriter-producer behind Chic and countless hits.
- Chip Taylor – Songwriter of numerous hits including “Wild Thing.”
2015
- Bobby Braddock – Country songwriter with multiple chart-topping hits.
- Willie Dixon – Blues songwriter whose work influenced generations of rock musicians.
- Jerry Garcia – Lyricist and songwriter for the Grateful Dead.
- Robert Hunter – Lyricist for the Grateful Dead.
- Toby Keith – Country songwriter and performer.
- Cyndi Lauper – Pop songwriter with an iconic voice and enduring hits.
- Linda Perry – Singer of 4 Non Blondes and songwriter-producer behind hits for Pink and Christina Aguilera.
2014
- Ray Davies – Principal songwriter for The Kinks.
- Donovan – Singer-songwriter known for folk and psychedelic hits.
- Graham Gouldman – Pop songwriter and member of 10cc.
- Mark James – Songwriter of hits including “Suspicious Minds.”
- Jim Weatherly – Country and pop songwriter known for “Midnight Train to Georgia.”
2013
- Tony Hatch – British songwriter of pop classics.
- Lou Gramm – Lead singer and songwriter for Foreigner.
- Mick Jones – Guitarist and songwriter for Foreigner.
- Holly Knight – Pop and rock songwriter behind major hits.
- Joe Perry – Guitarist and songwriter for Aerosmith.
- John David “JD” Souther – Country-rock songwriter associated with the Eagles.
- Steven Tyler – Lead singer and songwriter for Aerosmith.
2012
- Tom Jones – Singer-songwriter with a career spanning decades.
- Gordon Lightfoot – Canadian folk songwriter with enduring classics.
- Don Schlitz – Country songwriter of hits like “The Gambler.”
- Harvey Schmidt – Composer and lyricist for Broadway musicals.
- Bob Seger – Rock songwriter with heartland-themed hits like “Against the Wind” and “Old Time Rock & Roll.”
- Jim Steinman – Songwriter and producer known for dramatic rock songs by Meat Loaf and Bonnie Tyler.
2011
- John Bettis – Lyricist of numerous pop hits.
- Garth Brooks – Country songwriter and performer with massive chart success.
- Tom Kelly – Pop songwriter of hits for multiple artists.
- Leon Russell – Rock and pop songwriter with a wide-ranging catalog.
- Billy Steinberg – Songwriter of pop classics like “Like a Virgin.”
- Allen Toussaint – R&B and soul songwriter-producer.
2010
- Tom Adair – Composer of popular songs and Broadway tunes.
- Philip Bailey – Lead singer and songwriter for Earth, Wind & Fire.
- Leonard Cohen – Poet and singer-songwriter with a deeply influential catalog.
- Jackie DeShannon – Singer-songwriter of pop hits including “What the World Needs Now.”
- Matt Dennis – Composer and lyricist of jazz standards.
- Larry Dunn – Keyboardist and songwriter for Earth, Wind & Fire.
- David Foster – Songwriter and producer behind numerous adult contemporary hits.
- Johnny Mandel – Composer and songwriter of jazz and film music.
- Bob Marley – Reggae singer-songwriter with global influence.
- Al McKay – Guitarist and songwriter for Earth, Wind & Fire.
- Laura Nigro (Laura Nyro) – Singer-songwriter known for soulful pop compositions.
- Sunny Skylar – Lyricist of numerous pop standards.
- Jesse Stone – Rhythm and blues songwriter and producer.
- Maurice White – Founder, songwriter, and producer for Earth, Wind & Fire.
- Verdine White – Bassist and songwriter for Earth, Wind & Fire.
2009
- Jon Bon Jovi – Rock songwriter and frontman of Bon Jovi, known for arena anthems.
- Eddie Brigati – Member and songwriter for The Rascals.
- Felix Cavaliere – Lead singer and songwriter for The Rascals.
- Roger Cook – British songwriter behind multiple pop hits.
- David Crosby – Folk-rock songwriter and member of The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash.
- Roger Greenaway – British songwriter of numerous pop classics.
- Galt MacDermot – Composer of music for Hair and other musicals.
- Graham Nash – Singer-songwriter for The Hollies and Crosby, Stills & Nash.
- James Rado – Lyricist and co-creator of Hair.
- Gerome Ragni – Lyricist and co-creator of Hair.
- Richie Sambora – Guitarist and songwriter for Bon Jovi.
- Stephen Schwartz – Composer and lyricist of Broadway musicals.
- Stephen Stills – Folk-rock songwriter and member of Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills & Nash.
2008
- Desmond Child – Rock and pop songwriter of numerous hits for Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, KISS.
- Albert Hammond – Singer-songwriter behind iconic pop songs.
- Loretta Lynn – Country songwriter known for groundbreaking lyrics.
- Alan Menken – Composer of Disney classics and Broadway musicals.
- John Sebastian – Folk-rock songwriter and member of The Lovin’ Spoonful.
2007
- Don Black – Lyricist of pop and film songs.
- Jackson Browne – Singer-songwriter and advocate of social issues through music.
- Irving Burgie – Composer of Caribbean and calypso music.
- Merle Haggard – Country singer-songwriter with influential storytelling.
- Michael Masser – Composer and songwriter of pop and R&B hits like “Greatest Love of All.”
- Teddy Randazzo – Songwriter and producer of pop classics.
- Bobby Weinstein – Lyricist behind multiple pop hits.
2006
- Thom Bell – Songwriter and producer influential in Philadelphia soul.
- Henry Cosby – Motown songwriter and producer.
- Mac Davis – Country and pop songwriter with multiple hits.
- Will Jennings – Songwriter of movie themes and pop classics, including Titanic.
- Sylvia Moy – Motown songwriter behind hits for Stevie Wonder and others.
2005
- David Bowie – Iconic songwriter and performer across rock and pop.
- Steve Cropper – Guitarist and songwriter for soul and R&B classics.
- John Fogerty – Rock songwriter and leader of Creedence Clearwater Revival.
- Isaac Hayes – Soul songwriter and producer, co-creator of Shaft theme.
- David Porter – Songwriter and producer at Stax Records.
- Richard Sherman – Lyricist of Disney classics with brother Robert.
- Robert Sherman – Lyricist of Disney classics with brother Richard.
- Bill Withers – Soul songwriter known for timeless hits like “Lean on Me.”
2004
- Charles Fox – Composer of TV and pop hits.
- Al Green – Soul songwriter and singer behind “Let’s Stay Together.”
- Daryl Hall – Songwriter and vocalist of Hall & Oates.
- Don McLean – Singer-songwriter of “American Pie.”
- John Oates – Songwriter and vocalist of Hall & Oates.
- Barrett Strong – Motown songwriter of numerous R&B classics.
- Norman Whitfield – Motown songwriter and producer of psychedelic soul hits.
2003
- Phil Collins – Rock and pop songwriter with decades of hits with Genesis and solo.
- John Deacon – Bassist and songwriter for Queen.
- Brian May – Guitarist and songwriter for Queen.
- Freddie Mercury – Iconic vocalist and songwriter for Queen.
- Van Morrison – Singer-songwriter blending rock, blues, and soul.
- Richard “Little Richard” Penniman – Pioneer of rock ’n’ roll songwriting.
- Roger Taylor – Drummer and songwriter for Queen.
2002
- Nickolas Ashford – Motown songwriter and producer, often with Valerie Simpson.
- Michael Jackson – Pop icon and songwriter of globally influential hits.
- Barry Manilow – Pop songwriter known for classics like “Mandy.”
- Randy Newman – Composer and songwriter of film and pop music.
- Valerie Simpson – Motown songwriter and producer with Ashford.
- Sting – Singer-songwriter and founding member of The Police.
2001
- Eric Clapton – Rock and blues songwriter and guitarist.
- Willie Nelson – Legendary country songwriter and performer.
- Dolly Parton – Beloved country songwriter and performer with a lasting catalog.
- Diane Warren – Pop songwriter of chart-topping hits for dozens of artists.
- Paul Williams – Pop and film songwriter for everyone from Barbra Streisand to Daft Punk.
2000
- James Brown – Godfather of Soul and songwriter of funk and R&B hits.
- Glenn Frey – Songwriter and member of The Eagles.
- Don Henley – Singer-songwriter and founding member of The Eagles.
- Curtis Mayfield – Soul and funk songwriter with socially conscious lyrics.
- James Taylor – Singer-songwriter of folk-pop classics like “Fire & Rain.”
- Brian Wilson – Songwriter and producer of The Beach Boys’ enduring catalog.
1999
- Bobby Darin – Singer-songwriter of pop and jazz classics.
- Peggy Lee – Jazz and pop songwriter with a distinctive voice.
- Tim Rice – Lyricist of musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar.
- Bruce Springsteen – Rock singer-songwriter known for his legendary hits like “Born to Run” and “Born in the USA.”
1998
- John Barry – Composer of film scores including James Bond themes.
- Dave Bartholomew – R&B and rock songwriter and producer.
- Antoine “Fats” Domino – Rock and R&B songwriter and pianist.
- Larry Stock – Tin Pan Alley songwriter of early 20th-century hits.
- John Williams – Composer of iconic film scores.
1997
- Harlan Howard – Country songwriter with numerous classics.
- Jimmy Kennedy – Lyricist of many popular songs before 1950.
- Ernesto Lecuona – Cuban composer and songwriter.
- Joni Mitchell – Folk-rock songwriter and performer of “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Both Sides Now.”
- Phil Spector – Influential songwriter and producer of “Wall of Sound.”
1996
- Charles Aznavour – French songwriter and performer.
- John Denver – Singer-songwriter of folk-pop hits like “Rocky Mountain High.”
- Ray Noble – British composer and songwriter.
1995
- Kenneth Gamble – Philadelphia soul songwriter and producer.
- Bob Gaudio – Songwriter and member of The Four Seasons.
- Leon Huff – Philadelphia soul songwriter and producer.
- Max Steiner – Composer of film scores.
- Andrew Lloyd Webber – Composer and lyricist of musicals.
1994
- Barry Gibb – Bee Gees co-founder and songwriter.
- Maurice Gibb – Bee Gees co-founder and songwriter.
- Robin Gibb – Bee Gees co-founder and songwriter.
- Otis Redding – Soul songwriter and singer.
- Lionel Richie – Pop and R&B songwriter and performer.
- Carly Simon – Singer-songwriter of pop and soft rock hits.
1993
- Paul Anka – Singer-songwriter and pop hits composer.
- Mick Jagger – Lead singer and songwriter for The Rolling Stones.
- Bert Kaempfert – Composer of pop and easy-listening hits.
- Herb Rehbein – Collaborator with Bert Kaempfert.
- Keith Richards – Guitarist and songwriter for The Rolling Stones.
1992
- Linda Creed – Lyricist behind soul and R&B classics.
- Billy Joel – Pop-rock singer-songwriter of enduring hits.
- Elton John – Singer-songwriter with decades of global success.
- Jerome “Doc” Pomus – R&B and rock lyricist.
- Mort Shuman – Songwriter and lyricist.
- Bernie Taupin – Lyricist for Elton John’s hits.
1991
- Jeff Barry – Pop songwriter of the 1960s.
- Otis Blackwell – Rock and roll songwriter of early classics.
- Howard Greenfield – Lyricist of pop hits.
- Ellie Greenwich – Songwriter of girl-group and pop hits.
- Antonio Carlos Jobim – Brazilian songwriter and bossa nova pioneer.
1990
- Jim Croce – Singer-songwriter of folk-pop classics.
- Michel Legrand – Composer and songwriter of jazz and film music.
- Smokey Robinson – Motown songwriter and singer with the Miracles.
1989
- Lee Adams – Lyricist of Broadway hits.
- Leslie Bricusse – Lyricist and composer of film and stage songs.
- Eddie DeLange – Pop songwriter of standards.
- Anthony Newley – Lyricist and performer.
- Roy Orbison – Rock and pop songwriter with timeless hits.
1988
- Leroy Anderson – Composer of light orchestral music.
- Noel Coward – Playwright and songwriter of popular tunes.
- Lamont Dozier – Motown songwriter of numerous hits.
- Brian Holland – Motown songwriter and producer.
- Edward Holland – Motown songwriter, part of Holland-Dozier-Holland team.
1987
- Sam Cooke – Soul songwriter and singer.
- Gerry Goffin – Lyricist behind 1960s pop hits.
- Carole King – Singer-songwriter of timeless pop hits.
- John Lennon – Songwriter and performer for The Beatles.
- Barry Mann – Pop songwriter.
- Sir Paul McCartney – Legendary songwriter and performer for The Beatles.
- Bob Merrill – Songwriter of Broadway and pop hits.
- Carole Bayer Sager – Lyricist and songwriter of pop hits.
- Cynthia Weil – Lyricist and songwriter of classic hits.
1986
- Chuck Berry – Pioneer of rock ’n’ roll songwriting.
- Boudleaux Bryant – Songwriter with Felice Bryant of country classics.
- Felice Bryant – Songwriter with Boudleaux Bryant of country classics.
- Marvin Hamlisch – Composer of Broadway and film songs.
- Buddy Holly – Rock and pop songwriter and performer.
- Jimmy Webb – Songwriter of pop classics like “Wichita Lineman.”
1985
- Saul Chaplin – Composer and arranger for Broadway and film.
- Bob Crewe – Songwriter and producer for The Four Seasons.
- Gene De Paul – Songwriter of pop standards.
- Kris Kristofferson – Country and pop songwriter.
- Jerry Leiber – Lyricist and songwriter with Mike Stoller.
- Carolyn Leigh – Lyricist of pop and Broadway songs.
- Don Raye – Songwriter of swing and jazz standards.
- Fred Rose – Country songwriter and publisher.
- Mike Stoller – Songwriter and producer with Jerry Leiber.
- Charles Strouse – Broadway composer.
1984
- Richard Adler – Broadway songwriter.
- Bennie Benjamin – Lyricist of pop and R&B hits.
- Neil Diamond – Pop-rock songwriter and performer.
- Norman Gimbel – Lyricist of film and pop songs.
- Al Hoffman – Pop songwriter from the ’30s through ’50s.
- Henry Mancini – Composer of film and TV themes.
- Maceo Pinkard – Songwriter of jazz and popular tunes.
- Billy Strayhorn – Jazz composer and songwriter with Duke Ellington.
- George David Weiss – Lyricist of pop and jazz standards.
1983
- Harry Akst – Composer of early 20th-century popular music.
- Ralph Blane – Lyricist of Broadway and film hits.
- Ervin Drake – Songwriter of pop standards.
- Fred Ebb – Lyricist for Broadway musicals like Cabaret.
- Bob Hilliard – Lyricist of popular music.
- John Kander – Composer for Broadway musicals.
- Hugh Martin – Composer and lyricist of popular standards.
- Neil Sedaka – Singer-songwriter of pop classics.
- Harry Tobias – Songwriter of early pop songs.
- Alec Wilder – Composer of jazz and popular songs.
- Stevie Wonder – Songwriter and performer across soul, pop, and R&B. Youngest-ever inductee at age 33.
1982
- Rube Bloom – Composer of jazz and pop songs.
- Bob Dylan – Folk and rock songwriter with immense cultural impact over seven decades.
- Jerry Herman – Composer of Broadway musicals.
- Gordon Jenkins – Orchestrator and songwriter of pop classics.
- Harold Rome – Composer of Broadway musicals.
- Jerry Ross – Composer and songwriter.
- Paul Simon – Grammy-winning singer-songwriter of Simon & Garfunkel and solo hits.
- Al Stillman – Lyricist of pop standards.
- Meredith Willson – Broadway composer and songwriter.
1981
- Cy Coleman – Broadway composer and jazz-influenced songwriter.
- Jerry Livingston – Composer of pop and film music.
- Johnny Marks – Songwriter of holiday classics including “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”
1980
- Alan Bergman – Lyricist of film and pop songs with Marilyn Bergman.
- Marilyn Bergman – Lyricist and songwriter with Alan Bergman.
- Betty Comden – Lyricist and librettist for Broadway musicals.
- Adolph Green – Lyricist and librettist for Broadway musicals.
- Herb Magidson – Lyricist of film and popular songs.
1979
No inductees.
1978
No inductees.
1977
- Ray Evans – Lyricist of numerous popular songs and film hits.
- Jay Livingston – Composer and songwriter, often collaborating with Ray Evans.
1976
No inductees.
1975
- Louis Alter – Composer of popular songs and standards.
- Mack David – Lyricist and songwriter of pop and film music.
- Benny Davis – Songwriter of early 20th-century hits.
- Edward Eliscu – Lyricist of Broadway and film songs.
- Bud Green – Lyricist of Tin Pan Alley and pop standards.
- Lou Handman – Composer of pop songs.
- Edward Heyman – Lyricist of jazz and popular songs.
- Jack Lawrence – Lyricist of classic pop hits.
- Stephen Sondheim – Composer and lyricist of iconic Broadway musicals.
1974
No inductees.
1973
No inductees.
1972
- Harold Adamson – Lyricist for film and stage music.
- Milton Ager – Composer of popular songs and standards.
- Burt Bacharach – Pop songwriter and composer of timeless hits.
- Leonard Bernstein – Composer of Broadway and orchestral music.
- Jerry Bock – Broadway composer.
- Irving Caesar – Lyricist of pop and Broadway classics.
- Sammy Cahn – Lyricist of jazz and popular standards.
- J. Fred Coots – Composer of popular songs including “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.”
- Hal David – Lyricist for Burt Bacharach hits.
- Howard Dietz – Lyricist and publicist, co-writer of film and stage songs.
- Sammy Fain – Composer of Broadway and film songs.
- Arthur Freed – Lyricist and producer of classic MGM musicals.
- Haven Gillespie – Lyricist of jazz and pop standards.
- John Green – Lyricist of Broadway and film songs.
- E.Y. “Yip” Harburg – Lyricist of The Wizard of Oz and other standards.
- Sheldon Harnick – Lyricist of Broadway hits like Fiddler on the Roof.
- Ted Koehler – Lyricist of jazz and pop standards.
- Burton Lane – Composer for Broadway and film.
- Edgar Leslie – Lyricist of popular songs.
- Frederick Loewe – Composer of Broadway classics including My Fair Lady.
- Joseph Meyer – Composer of Tin Pan Alley and pop songs.
- Mitchell Parish – Lyricist of jazz and popular standards.
- Andy Razaf – Lyricist of jazz and swing classics.
- Leo Robin – Lyricist of film and popular songs.
- Arthur Schwartz – Composer of Broadway and pop music.
- Pete Seeger – Folk songwriter and activist.
- Carl Sigman – Lyricist of jazz and pop standards.
- Jule Styne – Broadway composer and songwriter.
- Ned Washington – Lyricist of film and pop songs.
- Mabel Wayne – Composer of popular songs.
- Paul Francis Webster – Lyricist of film and pop standards.
- Jack Yellen – Lyricist of popular and Tin Pan Alley songs.
1971
- Harold Arlen – Composer of jazz, Broadway, and Hollywood classics.
- Hoagy Carmichael – Jazz and pop composer known for “Stardust.”
- Duke Ellington – Jazz composer and songwriter of enduring standards.
- Dorothy Fields – Lyricist of Broadway and pop hits.
- Rudolf Friml – Composer of operettas and musicals.
- Ira Gershwin – Lyricist with George Gershwin for Broadway and pop classics.
- Alan Jay Lerner – Lyricist and librettist for Broadway musicals.
- Johnny Mercer – Lyricist of jazz and pop standards.
- Jimmy Van Heusen – Composer of jazz and pop standards.
- Harry Warren – Composer of film and Broadway songs.
1970
- Fred Ahlert – Composer of pop songs and standards.
- Ernest Ball – Composer of popular and Irish-American songs.
- Katharine Lee Bates – Lyricist of “America the Beautiful.”
- Irving Berlin – Iconic songwriter of American pop standards.
- William Billings – Early American composer.
- James Bland – Composer of 19th-century popular songs.
- Carrie Jacobs Bond – Composer of early American popular music.
- James Brockman – Songwriter of Tin Pan Alley and pop standards.
- Lew Brown – Lyricist of Tin Pan Alley songs.
- Nacio Herb Brown – Composer of film and pop classics.
- Alfred Bryan – Lyricist of popular songs.
- Joe Burke – Composer of pop and film songs.
- Johnny Burke – Lyricist of film and pop hits.
- Anne Caldwell – Lyricist for Broadway musicals.
- Harry Carroll – Composer of Tin Pan Alley hits.
- Sidney Clare – Lyricist of film and pop standards.
- Will Cobb – Lyricist of early popular songs.
- George M. Cohan – Composer of patriotic and Broadway classics.
- Con Conrad – Composer of pop standards.
- Sam Coslow – Lyricist of film and pop songs.
- Hart P. Danks – Composer of popular songs.
- Reginald De Koven – Composer of operettas and musical theater.
- Peter De Rose – Composer of early pop standards.
- Buddy De Sylva – Lyricist and producer of Tin Pan Alley songs.
- Mort Dixon – Lyricist of jazz and pop hits.
- Walter Donaldson – Composer of Tin Pan Alley and jazz standards.
- Paul Dresser – Composer of American popular songs.
- Dave Dreyer – Composer of pop and jazz hits.
- Al Dubin – Lyricist of film and Broadway hits.
- Vernon Duke – Composer of jazz and popular music.
- Gus Edwards – Composer of early 20th-century songs.
- Raymond Egan – Lyricist of popular songs.
- Daniel Decatur Emmett – Composer of early American music.
- Ted Fio Rito – Composer of jazz and popular songs.
- Fred Fisher – Composer of pop classics.
- Stephen Foster – Composer of 19th-century American standards.
- George Gershwin – Composer of Broadway, jazz, and classical works.
- L. Wolfe Gilbert – Lyricist of early pop standards.
- Patrick Gilmore – Composer of marches and popular tunes.
- Mack Gordon – Lyricist of film and pop songs.
- Ferde Grofe – Composer and arranger of orchestral music.
- Woody Guthrie – Folk songwriter and activist.
- Oscar Hammerstein – Lyricist of Broadway musicals with Richard Rodgers.
- W.C. Handy – Composer of blues standards.
- James F. Hanley – Composer of popular songs.
- Otto Harbach – Lyricist and librettist of Broadway songs.
- Charles Harris – Lyricist of early 20th-century songs.
- Lorenz Hart – Lyricist of Broadway classics with Richard Rodgers.
- Ray Henderson – Composer of Tin Pan Alley hits.
- Victor Herbert – Composer of operettas and popular songs.
- Billy Hill – Songwriter of country and pop hits.
- Joe Howard – Composer and performer of popular songs.
- Julia Ward Howe – Lyricist of “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”
- Howard Johnson – Lyricist of popular songs.
- James P. Johnson – Composer of jazz and ragtime.
- James W. Johnson – Lyricist and civil rights activist.
- Arthur Johnston – Composer of jazz and pop songs.
- Isham Jones – Composer and bandleader.
- Scott Joplin – Ragtime composer and pianist.
- Irving Kahal – Lyricist of popular songs.
- Gus Kahn – Lyricist of early American standards.
- Bert Kalmar – Lyricist of Tin Pan Alley hits.
- Jerome Kern – Composer of Broadway and film songs.
- Francis Scott Key – Lyricist of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
- Huddie Ledbetter (Lead Belly) – Folk and blues songwriter.
- Sam Lewis – Lyricist of pop songs.
- Frank Loesser – Broadway composer and lyricist.
- Ballard MacDonald – Lyricist of Tin Pan Alley and pop songs.
- Edward Madden – Lyricist of early popular songs.
- Joseph McCarthy – Lyricist of Tin Pan Alley songs.
- Jimmy McHugh – Composer of jazz and pop hits.
- George W. Meyer – Composer of early 20th-century songs.
- Jimmy Monaco – Composer of Tin Pan Alley and pop songs.
- Neil Moret – Composer of popular standards.
- Theodore Morse – Composer of early American popular music.
- Lewis F. Muir – Composer of Tin Pan Alley songs.
- Ethelbert Nevin – Composer of classical and popular songs.
- Jack Norworth – Lyricist of early American standards.
- Chauncey Olcott – Composer and lyricist of Irish-American songs.
- John Howard Payne – Lyricist of “Home! Sweet Home!”
- J.S. Pierpont – Composer of patriotic songs.
- Lew Pollack – Composer of Tin Pan Alley hits.
- Cole Porter – Composer and lyricist of Broadway and pop standards.
- Ralph Rainger – Composer of film and pop hits.
- Harry Revel – Composer of film and pop songs.
- Eben E. Rexford – Lyricist of popular songs.
- Jimmie Rodgers – Early country songwriter and performer.
- Richard Rodgers – Broadway composer with Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein.
- Sigmund Romberg – Composer of operettas and musicals.
- George F. Root – Composer of 19th-century American songs.
- Billy Rose – Lyricist and producer of pop hits.
- Vincent Rose – Composer of popular music.
- Harry Ruby – Composer and lyricist of pop standards.
- Bob Russell – Lyricist of jazz and pop hits.
- Jean Schwartz – Composer and lyricist of Tin Pan Alley songs.
- Harry Bache Smith – Lyricist of Broadway musicals.
- Samuel Francis Smith – Lyricist of “My Country, ’Tis of Thee.”
- Ted Snyder – Composer and lyricist of early pop standards.
- John Philip Sousa – Composer of marches and patriotic music.
- Andrew B. Sterling – Lyricist of Tin Pan Alley songs.
- Harry A. Tierney – Composer of musicals and pop songs.
- Charles Tobias – Lyricist of popular songs.
- Roy Turk – Lyricist of jazz and pop standards.
- Egbert Van Alstyne – Composer of early American songs.
- Albert Von Tilzer – Composer of Tin Pan Alley hits.
- Harry Von Tilzer – Composer of popular music standards.
- Thomas “Fats” Waller – Jazz pianist and songwriter.
- Samuel Ward – Composer of popular songs.
- Kurt Weill – Composer of Broadway and classical music.
- Percy Wenrich – Composer of popular songs and ragtime.
- Richard Whiting – Composer of film and pop standards.
- Clarence Williams – Jazz composer and publisher.
- Hank Williams – Country songwriter and performer.
- Spencer Williams – Composer and songwriter of jazz and pop.
- Septimus Winner – Composer of popular songs.
- Harry M. Woods – Composer of pop and jazz standards.
- Henry C. Work – Composer of 19th-century popular music.
- Allie Wrubel – Composer of jazz and pop hits.
- Vincent Youmans – Broadway composer and songwriter.
- Joe Young – Lyricist of popular songs.
- Rida Johnson Young – Lyricist of Broadway hits.
- Victor Young – Composer of film and pop music.
Hal David Starlight Award Winners
The Songwriters Hall of Fame explains, “This prestigious award was established to honor gifted songwriters who are at an apex in their careers and are making a significant impact in the music industry via their original songs.”
It honors up-and-coming artists who are still growing in their careers.
Hal David Starlight Award Winners
2025: Gracie Abrams
2024: SZA
2023: Post Malone
2022: Lil Nas X
2019: Halsey
2018: Sara Bareilles
2017: Ed Sheeran
2016: Nick Jonas
2015: Nate Ruess
2014: Dan Reynolds
2013: Benny Blanco
2012: Ne-Yo
2011: Drake
2010: Taylor Swift
2009: Jason Mraz
2008: Johnny Rzeznik
2007: John Legend
2006: John Mayer
2005: Alicia Keys
2004: Rob Thomas
Johnny Mercer Award Winners
The Johnny Mercer Award goes to someone who has already been inducted. It serves as an additional honor to recognize that they have achieved even more than the other inductees.
Johnny Mercer Award Winners
2025: Stephen Schwartz
2024: Diane Warren
2023: Tim Rice
2022: Paul Williams
2019: Carole Bayer Sager
2018: Neil Diamond
2017: Alan Menken
2016: Lionel Richie
2015: Van Morrison
2014: Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff
2013: Elton John and Bernie Taupin
2011: Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil
2010: Phil Collins
2009: Lamont Dozier, Brian Holland, Edward Holland
2008: Paul Anka
2007: Dolly Parton
2006: Kris Kristofferson
2005: Smokey Robinson
2004: Stevie Wonder
2003: Jimmy Webb
2002: Carole King
2001: Billy Joel
2000: Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller
1999: Stephen Sondheim
1998: Paul Simon
1997: Alan Bergman and Marilyn Bergman
1996: Burt Bacharach and Hal David
1995: Cy Coleman
1994: Irving Caesar
1993: Jule Styne
1992: Burton Lane
1991: Betty Comden and Adolph Green
1990: Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick
1987: Jerry Herman
1986: Mitchell Parish
1985: Alan Jay Lerner
1983: Sammy Cahn
1982: Harold Arlen
1981: E.Y. “Yip” Harburg
Noteworthy Songwriters Who Have Not Been Inducted Yet
All of the following songwriters have been nominated for the Songwriters Hall of Fame, but have not been inducted.
David Byrne – Talking Heads frontman (nominated in 2026)
Patrick Leonard – Collaborator on many of Madonna’s 1980s hits (nominated in 2026)
Sarah McLachlan – Lilith Fair co-founder, ’90s acoustic rock hitmaker (nominated in 2026)
LL Cool J – Iconic “Mama Said Knock You Out” rapper (nominated in 2026)
Narada Michael Walden – writer/producer of massive Whitney and Aretha dance-pop hits from the ’80s (nominated in 2024, 2025)
Bryan Adams – ’80s rocker and singer of “Heaven,” “Summer of ’69,” and many others (nominated in 2023, 2024, 2025)
Boy George – Culture Club frontman and songwriter (nominated in 2025)
Sheryl Crow – Respected, Grammy-winning singer-guitarist (nominated in 2025)
Eminem – Legendary rapper behind the Slim Shady albums (nominated in 2025)
Janet Jackson – Multi-platinum dance-pop-soul performer (nominated in 2025)
NWA – Gangsta rap group comprised of Dr. Dre, Easy E, Ice Cube, MC Ren and DJ Yella (nominated in 2025)
Steve Winwood – Hitmaker over several decades, from “Gimme Some Lovin'” to “Higher Love” (nominated in 2023, 2025)
Tommy James – “Mony Mony,” “Crimson and Clover,” and “I Think We’re Alone Now” singer (nominated in 2025)
Blondie – Legendary new wave pop band (nominated in 2023, 2024)
Tracy Chapman – One of the great modern folk/acoustic singer-songwriters (nominated in 2024)
Maurice Starr – Founder and songwriter for New Edition and New Kids on the Block (nominated in 2024)
Ann and Nancy Wilson – The faces behind ’70s and ’80s rock band Heart (nominated in 2024)
Chuck D and Flavor Flav – The voices behind innovative rap group Public Enemy (nominated in 2024)
Vince Gill – sensitive country crooner with dozens of hits (nominated in 2023)
Patti Smith – groundbreaking punk rock poet (nominated in 2023)
If you’re interested in reading about the other side of the musical spectrum, see our article on the Musicians Hall of Fame, which honors the best instrumental performers.
Last Updated on February 7, 2026