Taylor Swift Earns Starlight Award for Songwriting

When Taylor Swift was just 17, she became the youngest person to ever write and sing a No. 1 country song entirely on her own, when her hit 'Our Song' spent six consecutive weeks at the top spot.

Since that time, the now 20-year-old has amassed awards and honors from around the world, and accomplished nothing short of global domination. Next month she'll add another prestigious award to her collection.

Hal David, Chairman/CEO of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, announced Tuesday (May 11) that Taylor will be the recipient of the Hal David Starlight Award, to be presented at the 2010 Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards dinner June 17 at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel.

"Taylor Swift is one of the brightest musical talents to emerge in recent years, and represents the true epitome of the Starlight Award," says Chairman/CEO Hal David, himself a legendary songwriter. "She possesses an undeniable talent as a songwriter, expressive singer and performer, and we are proud to present her with this well-deserved honor."

The Hal David Starlight Award, which was created in 2004, was renamed in honor of the Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman for his longtime support of young writers. Award recipients are gifted songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry via their original songs. Taylor joins past recipients Rob Thomas, Alicia Keys, John Mayer, John Legend, John Rzeznik (Goo Goo Dolls), and Jason Mraz.