The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) today celebrated the phenomenal global achievements of its top UK songwriters and composers at a private "ASCAP London Celebrates Creators" event held at The Shard. The prestigious ceremony recognized a diverse array of talent, from established icons to rising stars, highlighting the enduring influence of British music worldwide.
A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the ASCAP Golden Note Award to Mick Hucknall of Simply Red, marking the band's remarkable 40 years of global success. This top honor from ASCAP acknowledges songwriters and composers for their extraordinary career milestones.
Rising star Lola Young was recognized with the ASCAP Vanguard Award, an accolade that celebrates ASCAP members whose innovative work is actively shaping the future of music. This continues a period of significant recognition for the South London singer-songwriter.
Cian Ducrot, fresh off his 2024 ASCAP Vanguard Award, earned further acclaim, receiving his first Grammy for co-writing SZA's global sensation "Saturn." He was also honored by ASCAP with Song of the Year and Top Streaming Song awards for the track. Kenya Grace was celebrated for her worldwide hit "Strangers," earning her the Top Hot Dance/Electronic Song award, building on her ASCAP Global Impact Award from last year.
In the film and TV categories, Dario Marianelli received the Top Box Office Film of the Year for his score for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. Other notable film composers recognized included Robin Carolan (Nosferatu), Geoff Barrow and Ben Salisbury (Civil War), and Daniel Pemberton (Fly Me to the Moon). Amelia Warner earned a Top Streaming Film honor for Young Woman and the Sea.
The evening also celebrated the longevity and influence of UK songwriters, with Jungle (Josh Lloyd-Watson, Tom McFarland, and Lydia Kitto) honored for "Back on 74." Isabella Summers and Florence Welch of Florence + the Machine were applauded for their contribution to Drake’s "Rich Baby Daddy," and Norma Winstone and the late John Taylor of Azimuth were acknowledged for their sample on Drake’s "IDGAF."
