London – Bruce Springsteen is the first international songwriter to be elected a Fellow of the Ivors Academy, the UK's association of professional music creators.
The American icon was announced on Tuesday as the next recipient of the 80-year-old academy's top honor, in recognition of the impact his career has had on Britain's cultural landscape.
Over the past half-century, the “Born to Run” musician has released everything from his 1973 debut, “Greetings from Asbury Park, New Jersey,” to his latest studio album, “Only the Strong Survive,” in 2022. It has sold over 140 million records worldwide. Along the way, he lavished on top honors including 20 Grammy Awards, an Oscar, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Springsteen, 74, said in a statement released by the academy that he was proud of the honor. “In addition to recognizing my songwriting, this award also honors the fans and friends who have supported me and my work over the past 50 years. made me feel welcome every step of the way, for which I will always be deeply grateful.”
The news comes a week after Springsteen made a triumphant return to the stage with Phoenix's E Street Band for a nearly three-hour set.
Springsteen announced in September that he would pause touring, citing medical advice while recovering from a peptic ulcer.
Springsteen will receive the latest award at the Ivors Ceremony on May 23rd at London's Grosvenor House, where the winner of the 2024 Ivor Novello Award will also be announced. Nominees for the prestigious songwriting award will be announced by the nonprofit organization on April 23.
Springsteen becomes the Academy's 27th Fellow, joining previous inductees such as songwriter icons Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, Joan Armatrading and Sting. He will be the only songwriter from outside the UK, but the fellowship also includes American composer John Adams and French composer and conductor Pierre Boulez.
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