ASCAP (the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) will honor 12-time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys with the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award during its 22nd Annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards.       

       The invitation-only event will take place on June 26, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles and will also honor the songwriters and publishers of the most performed ASCAP songs on the 2008 R&B/Hip-Hop, Rap and Gospel charts.      

       The ASCAP Golden Note Award is presented to songwriters, composers, and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Past recipients include Sean “Diddy” Combs, Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Jay-Z, Quincy Jones, LL Cool J, New Edition and Lionel Richie.       

       “Since joining the ASCAP family at the age of 17, Alicia has grown into one of the most highly recognized and influential songwriter/performers of the past decade, whose artistry puts her in league with many of her musical idols,” said ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams. “We are especially proud to spotlight Alicia’s extraordinary achievements by honoring her with ASCAP’s Golden Note Award.”       

       The Awards celebration will also feature a special presentation of ASCAP’s Songwriter of the Year award to the songwriter with the most award-winning tunes of 2008. Past recipients of this top honor include 50 Cent, Johntá Austin, Mary J. Blige, Kandi Burruss, Sean “Diddy” Combs, Dr. Dre, Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Alicia Keys and Timbaland.       

       Special awards will also be presented to Publisher of the Year, Top R&B/Hip-Hop Song, Top Rap Song and Top Gospel Song. The evening will feature performances by several award-winning songwriter/performers