The celebrated singer/songwriter was honored in Hollywood
SESAC celebrated its songwriters and music publishers behind the most-performed songs of 2024 across genres at the W Hotel in Hollywood last night (Wed, Sept 17th), marking the fourth year the awards took place in Los Angeles.
Global superstar Ariana Grande was named Songwriter of the Year. Additionally, the popstar was awarded Song of the Year for her smash hit “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait For Your Love)” which became Grande’s seventh song to debut at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, earning her the record for female artist with the most number-one debuts in history.
The song was published by the recipient of the Publisher of the Year award, Universal Music Group Publishing. The company was also behind multiple award-winning songs from the evening, including “The Emptiness Machine” recorded by Linkin Park and “We Pray” recorded by Coldplay featuring Little Simz, Burna Boy, Elyanna, and Tini.
Dez Wright and The Legendary Traxster were each honored with Producer of the Year awards for their successes as prolific producers, working with major artists including Travis Scott, Future, Beyoncé, Megan thee Stallion, and more. Additional award-winning writers include Jack Harlow, Emily Armstrong, Dahi, Japanese Breakfast, Green Day, Fede Vindver, Sam Tinnesz, and more.
“We’re proud to honor the incredible songwriters and publishers who make our music come alive,” shares Sam Kling, Chief Creative Officer, SESAC Performing Rights. “These songs are the result of immense dedication and talent, and we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on the amazing contributions of our SESAC family.”
Kling announced that two members of the creative team, James Leach and John Sweeney, received posthumous Legacy Awards in recognition of the service and dedication they provided not only to their work at SESAC and the songwriters they represented, but to moving the industry forward.
On hand to celebrate were Kling, SESAC President & COO Scott Jungmichel, as well as SVP, Head of LA Creative Mario Prins and VP, Creative Services Diana Akin Scarfo. Artist and SESAC songwriter Tamara Jade, whose latest single “Werq” was released in July, served as the MC for the evening for the third consecutive year.
