Johnny Mercer Award

Paul Simon is one of those unique individuals whose impact on the culture has continued unabated in many different guises over the nearly 30 years of his creative life. He has literally been a musical spokesman for the sentiments of many eras.

Beginning with his first persona of…

Abe Olman Publisher Award

Irwin Z. Robinson is chairman and chief executive officer of The Famous Music Publishing Companies, the worldwide music publishing division of Paramount Pictures, which is part of the entertainment operations of Viacom Inc.

Robinson, based in New York City, joined Famous in April 1992, with a mandate to…

Sammy Cahn Lifetime Achievement Award

Berry Gordy is one of the single most influential personalities in establishing rock and roll as a vital component of American popular music. While that may sound like a mouthful, the fact is that Gordy has the stripes, hard won and well earned, to prove it. The credentials are impeccable.

Hitmaker Award

Gifted, talented, extraordinary! These are just a few of the enthusiastic cheers regularly raised for Diana Ross, one of the most notable women of the popular music spectrum of the late 20th century. In fact, the recording star and performer, Diana Ross, was named "The most successful female performer of…

Patron of the Arts Award

David W. Checketts was named president and chief executive officer of Madison Square Garden in September 1994. The 42-year-old Checketts oversees all operations of the renowned sports and entertainment companies, including the "World's Most Famous Arena" its four sports franchises -- the New York City Hawks of the Arena Football…

Towering Song

MEL TORME

As a recording artist, two-time Grammy award winner Mel Torme has few peers. Once known in recording circles as "The Velvet Fog," because of his smooth and caressing crooning style, his recording career has spanned over half a century, commencing in the mid-40s with his group, The…