Vince Gill to Receive BMI Icon Award
Vince Gill's iconic career will be celebrated with a prestigious honor in November. The singer-songwriter is the recipient of this year's BMI Icon Award at their annual awards ceremony on Nov. 4.
The award, which is "given to songwriters who have had a unique and indelible influence on generations of music makers," places Gill in an all-star cast of writers, including Dean Dillon, Tom T. Hall, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams, Jr., Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn, who have also received of the honor.
“The craft of a songwriter isn’t easy; however, Vince makes it look easy. He binds lyrics with music into timeless songs that have influenced musicians across all genres,” BMI President and Chief Executive Officer Mike O’ Neill says. “Vince Gill’s discography, in addition to his philanthropic endeavors in Nashville and beyond, represents the epitome of a BMI Icon, and we look forward to celebrating his accomplishments.”
The Oklahoma native has sold more than 26 million albums and amassed more than 74 major awards, including 20 Grammys, which is the most of any male country artist.
Gill will be honored with an all-star musical tribute during the awards ceremony. Other awards that will be given out throughout the evening include those for Country Songwriter, Song and Publisher of the Year.
The invitation-only event will be held at BMI's office on Music Row. The ceremony comes one night before the 48th annual CMA Awards, where Gill is nominated for Musical Event of the Year, for 'Bakerfield' with Paul Franklin.