Two Catawba College students tied for second place: Maryland native Katie Bragg won for her song “Unbreakable,” and Texan Mason Jewett won for “Devil Sunday”; each received a $2,500 scholarship. There was also a tie for third place: Weber State University student Sean Bishop was awarded a $2,500 scholarship for the song “The Real Me,” and co-scribes Dusti Kemp and Jessica Drake were each awarded $1,250 scholarships for “Time to Miss You.”

The 2009 judges included Universal Music Publishing Sr. VP Jennifer Blakeman; Warner Chappell Director, Creative Peter Visvardis; Kobalt Music Publishing VP Sharon Tapper; and EMI Music Publishing Director, Creative Jake Ottmann. The preliminary judging panel included Samantha Cox and Charlie Feldman, both from BMI's New York-based Writer/Publisher Relations team. Thousands of students representing schools from every state participated.

Established by Yoko Ono in 1997 in conjunction with the BMI Foundation, the John Lennon Scholarships have been made possible through generous donations from Ono with matching funds from Gibson Musical Instruments. More than $225,000 has been awarded over the last 11 years to students from select colleges, universities and music schools, and from national submissions from the National Association of Music Education/MENC chapters.

The BMI Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation founded in 1985 to support the creation, performance, and study of music through awards, scholarships, commissions and grants. Tax-deductible donations to the Foundation come primarily from songwriters, composers and publishers, BMI employees and members of the public with a special interest in music. Because both the Foundation staff and the distinguished members of the Advisory Panel serve without compensation, over 95% of all donations and income are used for charitable grants.

The Icon designation is given to BMI songwriters and artists who have had "a unique and indelible influence on generations of music makers." Kristofferson, who will be saluted with an all-star musical tribute that evening, joins an elite list of past honorees that includes country music stalwarts Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, Whisperin' Bill Anderson, Charlie Daniels, Loretta Lynn and last year's honoree Hank Williams, Jr., along with multi-genre nobility like the Bee Gees, Isaac Hayes, Ray Davies, James Brown, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Steve Winwood and more.

As often as the monikers are interchanged, "poet" and "songwriter" are not necessarily synonymous—unless, of course, one is referring to Kris Kristofferson. With the penetration of a poet and the humbling grace of a troubadour, Kristofferson built a legendary career most recognized for its versatility, authenticity, and sheer brilliance. He has received 48 BMI Country and Pop Awards for his compositions including "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down," "Why Me," "Me and Bobby McGee," "Lovin' Her Was Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again)," which was also the BMI Country Song of the Year in 1972, "Help Me Make It Through the Night," which garnered seven BMI Country and four BMI Pop Awards, and "For the Good Times," which won a BMI Country Award each consecutive year between 1971 and 1979 as well as five BMI Pop Awards between 1970 and 1974. Three Grammys line his shelves. He is a three-time BMI Country Songwriter of the Year, and eight of his compositions have generated substantially more than one million performances. While he wrote most of his masterpieces alone, his co-writers include giants Shel Silverstein, Marijohn Wilkin, and Fred Foster. He has starred in numerous films, including Lone Star, the Blade trilogy, Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid, A Star Is Born, for which he garnered the Golden Globe trophy for Best Motion Picture Actor, and Songwriter, for which he received an Oscar nomination for Original Song Score. Along with Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash, Kristofferson also formed the Highwaymen. He is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Songwriters Hall of Fame, which also honored him with the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award in 2006. Recording now for New West Records, he will release a new album in September of this year. A Rhodes Scholar capable of choosing virtually any path, Kristofferson decided to write songs, and for that, purveyors and lovers of American music are eternally grateful.

Hosted by BMI President & CEO Del Bryant and Nashville Writer/Publisher VP Jody Williams, the 57th Annual Country Awards will recognize the songwriters and publishers of the top BMI country songs played on American radio and television during the previous year. In addition to the Icon presentation, BMI will bestow prestigious honors on the Country Songwriter of the Year, Country Publisher of the Year and Most Performed Country Song of the Year, also known as the Robert J. Burton Award.

The evening also featured a competition to choose the winner of the BMI Foundation’s ninth annual Charlie Parker Jazz Composition Prize, given to the writer of the best new work composed in the BMI Jazz Composers Workshop. Composer Sara Jacovino won the competition for her composition “Mental Block,” and received a cash award along with a $3,000 commission to compose a new piece for the following year’s concert. Last year’s Manny Albam Commission winner, Jeff Fairbanks, premiered his commissioned work, “Mulberry Street.” The Commission is named in memory of the Workshop’s co-founder and longtime musical director.

The $3,000 BMI Foundation annual Charlie Parker Jazz Composition Prize was awarded to talented composer Sara Jacovino on June 26 at the BMI Jazz Composer Workshop Showcase Concert. Pictured at the concert are (l-r) bassist Rufus Reid; drummer Dennis Mackrel; composer Darcy J. Argue; showcase winner Sara Jacovino; BMI VP, Corporate Communications Robbin Ahrold; Workshop Music Director Jim McNeely; and Workshop Associate Director Mike Holober.

This year’s judges include Secret Society bandleader and composer Darcy J. Argue; noted jazz drummer and composer Dennis Mackrel; and premiere jazz bassist Rufus Reid.

The BMI/New York Jazz Orchestra.

The BMI Jazz Composers Workshop is led by internationally renowned composer Jim McNeely and offers a unique collaborative environment for professional jazz musicians with an emphasis on composition for the large jazz (big band) ensemble. The Workshop – a well-known forum for creative excellence – provides an environment where composers are free to explore new avenues in the creative process, while at the same time honing their skills. McNeely has performed with and written for Chet Baker, Stan Getz, Joe Henderson and the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, among others; is a six-time Grammy Award nominee; and The New York Times has called his writing “exhilarating”. Pianist, composer-arranger, and educator Mike Holober serves as Associate Musical Director of the Workshop.

“BMI mourns the passing of Michael Jackson. A BMI Icon, he was one of the greatest entertainers of our era. His songwriting skills, composing both music and lyrics, were as influential as his singing, dancing, personal style and humanitarianism. In an era in which most songs are composed by teams, Michael was the sole composer of dozens of songs that endeared him to audiences around the world. A BMI songwriter since 1976, his catalog contains more than 150 songs, more than 20 reaching multi-million performance status on American radio and television. Our hearts are with his family, especially his children, at this sad time. He will be missed by millions, but we can be comforted that he will live on, young and vibrant, in his music and videos.”

-- Del Bryant, President & CEO, Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI)

Below are reflections on Michael Jackson’s profound legacy from many of BMI’s most-performed songwriters.

Legendary BMI songwriter Lamont Dozier of Holland-Dozier-Holland first met Michael Jackson when the latter was a prodigious young performer. Dozier says:

"I knew Michael when he started out as an incredible young performer and watched him grow into one of the most outstanding talents we have witnessed in our lifetime. He was a terrific young man whose talent and creativity grew as he did. He was an innovative and talented songwriter. His works will live on and on for generations to come. He had the uncanny ability to touch everyone from all generations with his songs . . . not just his vocal performance and dancing but his songwriting, music and lyrics cut through whatever else was happening on radio and were received on a worldwide basis in all genres. He is responsible for the world coming together to embrace these songs and him as an unforgettable entertainer. The world has lost a true icon.

“I was one of the lucky ones who was present at the Motown 25 that year when he debuted “Billie Jean,” and I was sitting in the audience. There was an incredible energy in the room that I can only call "spirit" that reached out and forced everyone to their feet. It was the most powerful energy I've ever witnessed from an entertainer.

“Michael was not only a great artist and performer, he was a philanthropist and such a generous man whose gifts were boundless. The last time I saw him was at a small dinner party in New York at the home of a mutual friend. He was an intelligent business man and a gentle soul who had tremendous love and respect for all of us who came before him in this business. I will miss him terribly."

Iconic songwriter Carole King reflects:

“There were so many things about Michael Jackson that commanded our attention that we sometimes took his songwriting skills for granted. With his passing, hearing one great song after another, then another, and still another reminds us of how many truly imaginative songs, let alone hit songs, Michael wrote in his too-short life. Michael Jackson's extraordinary gift for music and entertainment brought generations, races, and nations together. Tragic in life, iconic in death, he was a friend to us all. May he rest in peace.”

BMI star producer and songwriter Sean Garrett shares:

“Michael was not only my brother, friend, inspiration and spiritual peer in music, he was love in the purest form. Michael was able to give us the affection and tenderness of a child but at the same time give us the thrill of a beast. The joy that we gained from his life helped us get through so many trying times. Words can never express or replace the loss that we have endured with his departure. I have no choice but to remain inspired and continue to carry the torch for one of the most incredible talents to walk on this earth! God will never make one bad decision, so I must accept my responsibility in grief and stay strong and keep striving for excellence. In Michael's words to me, ‘Sean, you were blessed with a gift so your responsibility is to spread your talent and love to everyone you may meet.’

I love you, Michael!”

Dre of Cool & Dre shares:

“Upon hearing the news of Michael's passing my heart became empty. Growing up an only child, Michael Jackson was more than a hero to me. He was my best friend and a brother I never had. He was there through the good times and would pick me up through the bad times. For as long as I can remember, Michael has been by my side. He taught me how to dance. He taught me how to sing. He taught me how to love. He taught me how to dream. He made me proud to be black. He taught me the importance of caring for the less fortunate. He was an angel sent down from heaven and I am furious that God has called him home but thankful that I was able to experience his presence. Thanks for the memories. See you on the other side my friend.”

Rodney Jerkins shares:

"Michael's music celebrated life. He once told me, ‘The music never dies.’ Today I finally realize the truth of his words. He left of us a precious gift that will last forever. Thank you, Michael. May we always celebrate his legacy.”

Oscar-winning songwriter Carole Bayer Sager shares:

“I am shocked, saddened and still in disbelief over the death of Michael Jackson. He was one of, if not THE greatest entertainer of all time, and was without question the ‘King of Pop.’ He was also my friend. He recorded a song of mine on his 1979 ‘Off The Wall’ album and in 1981 we sang a duet together. We spent a considerable amount of time together in 2001 at my home music studio and I saw him in a totally different light - as a nurturing and caring father. I was so honored that he dedicated that album to me.

My heart and prayers are with his family, his three children, my friend Elizabeth Taylor, and all us who are mourning the premature loss of his very precious life.”

BMI artist/songwriter Keri Hilson shares:

"Just like many other artists, I have always been inspired by Michael Jackson. He's the only idol I've ever had and I'm saddened that I never got to tell him how much he and his music mean to me.

"I've met many stars in my life, but I would have been completely satisfied just to have laid eyes on MJ himself. The closest I've come was hearing he and his band rehearsing right next door to me here in LA last month, while he was rehearsing for his tour abroad. I will be overseas at the same time the tour was scheduled so yet again I looked forward to being in the same place.”

BMI artist/songwriter Chris Brown reflects:

"Michael Jackson is the reason why I do music and why I am an entertainer. I am devastated by this great loss, and I will continue to be humbled and inspired by his legacy. My prayers are with his family. Michael will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. He's the greatest...the best ever. No one will ever be better."

BMI Icons Kenny Gamble & Leon Huff share:

"Michael was a great and wonderful artist and performer. We were privileged and honored to record him and his brothers here at Philadelphia International Records. We are very honored to have been a part of Michael Jackson’s music and creative career in helping to write and produce his own music with his brothers. We know his music and legacy will live on for a very long time."

-- Billboard.com

BMI star Britney Spears shares:

"I was so excited to see his show in London. We were going to be on tour in Europe at the same time and I was going to fly in to see him. He has been an inspiration throughout my entire life, and I'm devastated he's gone!"

-- Billboard.com

BMI superstar R. Kelly shares:

"I am truly saddened that my mentor, brother and friend will no longer be with us physically. At the same time, I feel so blessed to have been touched by his music, his dance, his lyrics and his pure genius. It is because of Michael's yesterday that I am who I am today!

My condolences to his family and friends around the world. Michael Jackson, rest in peace, and may your music and legacy forever reign on earth!"

Amen!"

Versatile BMI star Jamie Foxx shared the following with television show Extra:

“You cannot say enough about what he has given to us musically and culturally. We take for granted people like him . . . All he wanted to do was give us great music, and that's what he did. Every single day was dedicated to us."

Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz shares:

"Michael Jackson has been a part of my life for as long I have heard music. He in my mind is the ultimate entertainer of our generation. I can remember exact moments of my life based on Michael Jackson songs and videos."

-- Billboard.com

BMI star Lupe Fiasco told MTV News the following:

“I’m hurt. But I'm celebrating his life and his music. Dancing and crying and dancing in public. Holding heart-to-heart conversations with complete strangers about one of the things, if not the only thing, we share in common, that is the legendary moonwalker himself. A white guy in a pickup truck pulled alongside me on the expressway and shouted to me, had I heard about mike?!? It's surreal and it's everywhere! Every time I feel like getting sad, one of his songs comes on, and I'm just filled with happiness and start singing and smiling. He was the best to ever do it. Salaams, Peace & Blessings. May Allah have mercy on his soul. We love you, MJ!"

-- MTV.com

A rare compilation of Johnny Mercer artwork, lunch with the Smashing Pumpkins' Billy Corgan, backstage meet-and-greets with Cher and Jason Mraz, a Red Floyd Rose guitar signed by Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora, a Fender bass autographed by Pete Wentz, and Carly Simon's hand-written lyrics of "You're So Vain" also number prominently among the offered items.

All proceeds will go towards the establishment of a permanent home for the Songwriters Hall of Fame museum in New York City, planned by both the Hall of Fame and National Academy of Popular Music. Bidding will end Tuesday, June 30.

To view all available items and to bid, click here.

For more information on the prospective museum, please click here.

For more information on the Songwriters Hall of Fame, please visit www.songhall.org.

"Over the past decade, FastTrack has built the entertainment industry's most advanced global network for management of copyright data. I look forward to working with all the talented executives on the FastTrack Board of Directors to continue to develop and implement these cutting-edge digital tools," said Bryant.

"All of us on the Board want to extend a special vote of thanks and heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Dr. Jürgen Becker for his great dedication during his mandate. His vision, passion and energy have made a huge contribution to FastTrack's unique organization, which have benefited more than 80 CISAC member societies, as well as FastTrack's 12 member societies.

"I am also especially pleased that Christophe Depreter has been appointed as FastTrack's Vice-Chair. His enthusiasm and diligence has made SABAM one of the leading societies in implementing FastTrack tools and products."

"I am glad to have the opportunity to contribute modestly to the noble task Del Bryant is going to take up. FastTrack is an alliance that sets an example of what a united and efficient collective management society shall be," said Depreter.

Established in 2000 to provide a series of networked tools to enhance the flow of data on creative works, FastTrack currently encompasses 12 European and American copyright organizations, including AKM/Austro-Mechana (Austria), ASCAP (USA), BMI (USA), Buma/Stemra (The Netherlands), GEMA (Germany), PRS for Music (United Kingdom), SABAM (Belgium), SACEM (France), SGAE (Spain), SIAE (Italy), SOCAN (Canada) and SUISA (Switzerland).

FastTrack is also the technology provider for the CISAC CIS-Net and ISWC-Net networks, now serving 90 rights organizations around the world.

T-Pain shares the Songwriter of the Year title with a record-breaking seven other top-shelf hit-makers, including Colbie Caillat, Polow Da Don, Alan Chang, Matchbox Twenty’s Paul Doucette and Brian Yale, Chris Brown, and Maroon 5’s Adam Levine.

Crosby, Stills & Nash numbered among the elite few inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame on Thursday, June 18 in New York. Folk-pop pioneer James Taylor officially inducted the trio after performing a medley of CSN classics including “Love the One You’re With,” “Long Time Gone,” and “Teach Your Children.” Members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, CSN were also named BMI Icons in 2006.

Fellow BMI legends Holland-Dozier-Holland also enjoyed glowing recognition. Already members of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the legendary Motown songwriting team received the Hall’s most prestigious honor, the Johnny Mercer Award. The award is bestowed on the composing world’s crème de la crème: Honorees must already be members of the Hall of Fame who have composed profoundly influential works repeatedly throughout their careers. Eddie Holland, Lamont Dozier, and Brian Holland join an elite list of past recipients that includes BMI giants Kris Kristofferson, Dolly Parton, Leiber & Stoller, Paul Simon, Carole King, and many others. Bebe Winans performed a “You Can’t Hurry Love” as a soulful tribute, while Motown founder Berry Gordy praised Holland-Dozier-Holland’s culture-shaping work.

Holland-Dozier-Holland

The night’s other inductees included Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora; Felix Cavaliere and Eddie Brigati; Roger Cook and Roger Greenaway; Galt MacDermot; James Rado and Gerome Ragni (deceased) and Stephen Schwartz.

For more information on the Songwriters Hall of Fame, please visit www.songhall.org.

One of American music’s most successful instrumental groups, The Ventures enjoyed a slew of hits including “Walk—Don’t Run,” a version of the Hawaii Five-O theme, “Perfida,” and numerous instrumental remakes of classics including “I Walk the Line” and the themes from Batman and Shaft. The band generated six Top 40 singles throughout the 1960s.

Bogle’s nimble playing proved exceptionally influential on rock ‘n’ roll guitarists. With a clean tone equally capable of evoking recklessness and virtuosic control, Bogle helped to define the early sound of the rock guitar.

As a resounding testament to their contributions, The Ventures were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2008.

BMI’s involvement underscores the organization’s vital role as an early career counselor and support system for aspiring songwriters and bands. As an initial point of contact for green artists, BMI serves as a fundamental bridge, connecting promising talent with industry decision-makers, as well as invaluable opportunities, including performance slots on stages at SXSW, the Austin City Limits Music Festival, Lollapalooza, and of course, Bonnaroo.