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Taylor Swift, Paul Stanley & Gene Simmons, And More To Be Inducted Into Songwriters Hall Of Fame

Mary Varvaris

"This year’s line-up not only showcases iconic songs but also celebrates unity across various genres," said Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman Nile Rodgers.

Taylor Swift, KISS' Gene Simmons
Taylor Swift, KISS' Gene Simmons(Credit: Beth Garrabrant, Andrew Briscoe)
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Taylor Swift, along with Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, founders of the rock band KISS, are among the artists who will be inducted into this year’s Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Established in 1969, the Songwriters Hall of Fame celebrates musical pioneers: past and present. To qualify for induction, songwriters with a notable catalogue of songs will be eligible 20 years after the first commercial release of a song.

With her impending induction, Taylor Swift is the second-youngest songwriter to receive the honour, joining Stevie Wonder, who was 33 when he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1983.

Along with Swift are KISS founding members – singer Paul Stanley and bassist Gene Simmons – plus Footloose hitmaker Kenny Loggins, You Oughta Know icon Alanis Morissette, and non-musicians Christopher “Tricky” Stewart (Umbrella, Single Ladies), Terry Britten and Graham Lyle (What’s Love Got To Do With It, We Don’t Need Another Hero), and Walter Afanasieff (All I Want For Christmas Is You).

This year’s inductees will be honoured during a ceremony unavailable to the public at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City on Thursday, 11 June. Additional special award honourees will be revealed soon.

Songwriters Hall of Fame Chairman and disco music icon, Nile Rodgers, said that this year’s inductees don’t only showcase iconic songs, but also celebrate unity across various genres.” In addition to crossing genres, Rodgers stated that the nominated artists have “profoundly impacted” billions of listeners across the globe.

“The music industry is built upon the incredible talent of songwriters who create unforgettable songs. Without their artistry, there would be no recorded music, concert experiences, or engaged fans,” Rodgers’ statement began. “Everything originates from the song and its creator. We take great pride in our ongoing commitment to recognizing [sic] some of the most culturally significant composers in history.

“This year’s line-up not only showcases iconic songs but also celebrates unity across various genres. These songwriters have profoundly impacted the lives of billions of listeners worldwide, and it is our privilege to honor [sic] their contributions.”

Songwriters and artists already in the Hall of Fame include Elton John and Bernie Taupin, Brian Wilson, Bruce Springsteen, Carole King, Paul Simon, Billy Joel, Lionel Richie, Bill Withers, R.E.M., Timbaland, Tom Petty, and others.