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(BlackPressRadio. com) - The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) hosted its 22nd Annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards last night at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, CA. BlackPressRadio provided LIVE red carpet coverage of the event. Photos and video will be available at noon today.

The star-studded event, which was attended by over 650 leading songwriters, recording artists and music industry notables, paid special tribute to Smokey Robinson and Alicia Keys,and honored the songwriters and publishers of the most performed ASCAPsongs on the 2008 R&B/Hip-Hop, Rap and Gospel charts.

But none of the stars could wait to discuss their love for the late songwriter/singer Michael Jackson.


Top awards were handed out to: Click here for the complete list of winners.

One of the evening's highlights was the presentation of ASCAP's Golden Note Award to Alicia Keys, which is presented to songwriters, composers, and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Gabby Wilson, an 11-year old musical prodigy, performed in honor of Keys, and Paul Williamspresented the prestigious award to the 12-time Grammy Award winner.Past recipients of ASCAP's Golden Note Award include Sean "Diddy"Combs, Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Jay-Z, Quincy Jones, LL Cool J, New Edition and Lionel Richie.

Another highlight was the special tribute to music legend Smokey Robinson, who was honored with ASCAP's Rhythm & Soul Heritage Award in recognition of "his achievements as a songwriter and artist who has written an enduring chapter in American musical history and whose songs have inspired generations. " Following a video presentation illustrating Robinson's outstanding career, Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, Nick Ashford & Valerie Simpson and ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams co-presented the award. The tribute culminated with stellar performances by R&B superstar Ne-Yo, R&B/Gospel singer-songwriter Kelly Price, new J Records artist CJ, and Australia's most popular vocal group Human Nature,who sang a selection of Robinson's biggest hits. Past recipients ofASCAP's Rhythm & Soul Heritage Award include Earth, Wind &Fire; Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Bill Withers.


SAVE the DATE: Sept. 17-19, 2009
5th Annual Black Press All Star Awards in Harlem, New York

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