Eminem, Boy George, George Clinton, Sheryl Crow, Janet Jackson, the Doobie Brothers, N.W.A., and Alanis Morissette are among the nominees for the 2025 class at the Songwriters Hall of Fame. This diverse group of rap, rock, hip-hop, and pop pioneers showcases the wide range of talent being recognized.
Joining them on the ballot are Bryan Adams, known for hits like “Summer of ’69” and “Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman?,” and Mike Love of the Beach Boys, seeking entry 25 years after band founder Brian Wilson. David Gates, co-lead singer of Bread, is also vying for induction.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame annually inducts performers and non-performers. This year, non-performer nominees include Walter Afanasieff, Mike Chapman, and Narada Michael Walden, who have all made significant contributions to the music industry.
Eligible voting members have until December 22 to submit their ballots, selecting three nominees from the songwriter category and three from the performing-songwriter category. Notable performers getting another chance at entry include George Clinton, The Doobie Brothers, and Steve Winwood.
Hip-hop representation this year comes from Eminem and N.W.A. members, highlighting the genre's impact on music history. Janet Jackson and Alanis Morissette bring their groundbreaking work to the forefront, potentially joining the ranks of esteemed Hall of Fame members.
Other nominees in the non-performing category include Franne Golde, Tom Douglas, Ashley Gorley, and Roger Nichols, each recognized for their songwriting prowess. The Hall also acknowledges songwriting teams like Steve Barri and P.F. Sloan, Dennis Lambert and Brian Potter, and Dan Penn and Spooner Oldham.
Established in 1969, the Songwriters Hall of Fame honors those who have made significant contributions to popular music. Inductees must have a notable catalog of songs and qualify for induction 20 years after the first commercial release of a song.
Previous inductees include Carole King, Paul Simon, Billy Joel, Elton John, and many other music legends. The 2025 class promises to add more diverse talent to this prestigious group of songwriters.
For more information, visit the Songwriters Hall of Fame website.
