The 2025 inductees to the Songwriters Hall of Fame have been announced, which honors some of the most influential figures in music history. This year’s class includes legendary acts such as The Doobie Brothers, George Clinton, and The Beach Boys’ Mike Love, as well as hitmakers like Ashley Gorley and Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins.
Hall of Fame Chairman Nile Rodgers said in a statement: “The foundation of the music industry exists because songwriters compose great songs. Without them, there is no recorded music, no concert business, no fans, or merchandising; it all starts with the song and the songwriter. We are therefore very proud that we are continually recognizing some of the culturally most important writers of all time and that this year’s slate represents not just iconic songs, but also diversity and unity across genres and ethnicities. These songwriters have enriched the lives of billions of listeners the world over. It’s our honor to honor them.”
Clinton has penned such songs as “Atomic Dog” and “I’d Rather Be With You,” while The Doobie Brothers are known for such songs as “Takin’ It to the Streets” and “Long Train Runnin’.” Ashley Gorley wrote Post Malone’s “I Had Some Help” and Morgan Wallen’s “Last Night,” while Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins wrote “Say My Name” for Destiny’s Child and “The Boy is Mine” for Monica and Brandy. Mike Love wrote the Beach Boys hits “California Girls” and “Good Vibrations,” and Tony Macaulay wrote “Build Me Up Buttercup” and “Baby Now That I’ve Found You” for The Foundations.
Established in 1969, the Songwriters Hall of Fame (SHOF) serves as a vital bridge between music’s past and future. In the Hall, musical pioneers are enshrined and celebrated, while the organization’s outreach to the music community grooms the next generation of troubadours. To qualify for induction, a songwriter with a notable catalog of songs qualifies for induction 20 years after the first commercial release of a song.
The induction ceremony is slated for Thursday, June 12, at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. Additional special award honorees will be announced soon.
Editorial credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com