Steven Tyler performed with Aerosmith bandmates including guitarist Joe Perry on the May 23 finale. The band introduced their new single, "Legendary Child."
VIDEO: Taylor Hicks Talks Phillip Phillips On 'Idol Hangover'
Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry will be the 36th recipients of ASCAP’s Founders Award at this year’s Pop Music Awards, it was announced Wednesday.
The Founders Award is given to artists who “have made exceptional contributions to music, inspiring and influencing their fellow creators.”
PHOTOS: Grammys 2013: Inside the Industry’s Biggest Bashes
“As part of one of our nation’s greatest and most iconic rock bands, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry crafted the music that defined a generation and continues to inspire songwriters today. They are true musical pioneers whose contributions to American songwriting are immeasurable. We are extremely proud to honor these cultural icons with the ASCAP Founders Award,” ASCAP chairman Paul Williams said in a statement.
Tyler name-dropped some of the award’s previous recipients — which also include Beatles producer George Martin, Elvis Costello and Dr. Dre — and singled out Tom Waits as a particular favorite. “It is humbling for Joe and me to be honored for our music alongside the likes of Stevie Wonder, Neil Young, Paul McCartney and Joni Mitchell. It’s been a lifelong love affair, and it’s far from over. Besides, any society that lets Tom Waits in … I’m there!” Tyler also is scheduled to participate in a keynote interview with Showbiz 411 founder Roger Friedman the day after the Pop Music Awards, during ASCAP’s “I Create Music” event.
LIST: THR Names Music’s 35 Top Hitmakers
Joe Perry echoed Tyler’s sentiments, saying in a statement that “we join an incredible list of honorees, and we are grateful to ASCAP for their support throughout our career.”
Aerosmith was founded in 1970 by Tyler, Perry, guitarist Ray Tabano, bassist Tom Hamilton and drummer Joey Kramer.
The Pop Music Awards will take place April 17 at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles.
Twitter: @billboardbiz
