Sting and Elton John are among the stars honoured at the 2021 BMI London Awards.
The awards show celebrates the top UK and European songwriters, composers and music publishers and saw several BMI Million-Air Awards were handed out to “recognise the iconic songs that have reached a million or more broadcast performances by UK and European songwriters and publishers.”
Topping the list was The Police rocker, who releases new album ‘The Bridge’ in November, who holds the number one song in BMI’s repertoire, with 16 million performances of the timeless hit Every Breath You Take.
Meanwhile, Elton’s classics Bennie and the Jets and Don’t Go Breaking My Heart – both of which have reached seven million – were recognised, along with I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues, which hit six million.
The music icon’s new LP ‘The Lockdown Sessions’ is due for release later this month.
Ed Sheeran and Nick Van Eede, with Arlo Parks the recipient of this year’s BMI Impact Award for “groundbreaking artistry, creative vision and impact on the future of music”.
Inflo, a member of SAULT, was also awarded the BMI Champion Award for “groundbreaking musical achievements and collaborations” and social activism.
And BMI announced the Most-Performed Songs of the Year, including tracks by Anne-Marie, Sam Smith, Taylor Swift, Niall Horan, and beabadoobee.
Shirin Foroutan, Vice President, Creative, Europe, commented: “We’re extremely proud to recognise BMI’s top UK and European music creators and celebrate songwriting at its very best.
“This year, we’re presenting two special awards to two incredible innovators in music. The formidable Arlo Parks is receiving the BMI Impact Award for the vulnerability and authenticity she shares in her songwriting, resonating with music lovers worldwide.
“In addition, as one of the most transformative songwriters/producers of our time, we’re presenting Inflo with the BMI Champion Award in recognition of his groundbreaking musical achievements and collaborations, and for using his platform to champion social change to help better our world.
“We are privileged to represent every one of our award winners and honourees and celebrate their continued success.”
