Updated June 28, 2007
Over 500 songwriters, recording artists and music industry leaders gathered for the American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers' 20th Anniversary Rhythm and Soul Music Awards on June 25, 2007 at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. The event saluted the top songwriters and publishers behind the most popular music of 2006.The evening was highlighted with a special tribute to Mary J. Blige who was presented with the ASCAP Voice of Music Award, which is given to artists and songwriters whose music illuminates people's lives through song.
The private, invitation-only all-star gathering also included special guest presenters Akon, Keri Hilson, MC Lyte, The Underdogs, Ted Winn and others, plus live performances by star and emerging artists, including Keyshia Cole, Biz Markie, Wynter Gordon, Rock City, Karen Clark Sheard and Ne-Yo.
The list of winners includes:
ASCAP VOICE of MUSIC AWARD: Mary J. Blige.
SONGWRITERS of the YEAR: Johnta Austin, Mary J. Blige, Jermaine Dupri.
PUBLISHER of the YEAR: EMI Music Publishing.
SOUNDTRACK SONG of the YEAR: "Check On It," from The Pink Panther, by Beyoncé featuring Slim Thug.
REGGAE ARTIST of the YEAR: Sean Paul.
RINGTONE of the YEAR: "Grillz," by Nelly featuring Paul Wall, Ali & Gipp.
TOP R&B/HIP-HOP SONG: "Be Without You," by Mary J. Blige. Songwriters: Johntá Austin & Mary J. Blige.
TOP RAP SONG: "It's Goin' Down," by Yung Joc. Songwriter: Nitti
TOP GOSPEL SONG: "Looking For You" by Kirk Franklin. Songwriters: Sheree Brown, Charles Mims & Patrice Rushen.
