Tom Petty to receive ASCAP award

Tom Petty will be honored with the 2014 Founders Award from the American Society of Composers, Artists and Publishers (ASCAP) at their 31st Annual Pop Music Awards.

The Founders Award is given to "pioneering songwriters who have made exceptional contributions to music, inspiring and influencing their fellow music creators."

ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams said of Petty "Tom is the very definition of an American music icon. Not only is he one of the most admired and beloved songwriters of our time, his music continues to be a major influence and inspiration to new generations of songwriters today.He has earned music's highest honors — Grammys, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the distinction of being one of the best-selling artists of all time. And now, we are proud to present him with our most prestigious award of all, the ASCAP Founders Award."

Past recipients include Ashford & Simpson, Burt Bacharach & Hal David, Alan & Marilyn Bergman, Jackson Browne, Elvis Costello, Billy Joel, Annie Lennox, Sir Paul McCartney, Joni Mitchell, Smokey Robinson, Carly Simon, Patti Smith, Steely Dan, Rod Stewart, James Taylor, Steven Tyler & Joe Perry (Aerosmith), Tom Waits, Ann & Nancy Wilson (Heart), Stevie Wonder and Neil Young.

The award will be given on April 23 at Lowes Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles.

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