Bruce Springsteen will become the first international artist to be inducted as a fellow of Britain’s Ivors Academy.
‘The Boss’, 74, is set to make history by following Sir Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, Joan Armatrading and Sting by getting the honour, which was announced on Tuesday (26.03.24) by the academy.
Bruce said about his pride over being the first international songwriter to be recognised at the Ivors – which celebrate the UK’s best songwriters and composers: “In addition to recognising my songwriting, the award stands as a tribute to the fans and friends who have supported me and my work for the last 50 years.
“This entire country has made me feel welcome every step of the way, and for this, I will always remain deeply appreciative.”
Chair of the Ivors Academy, Tom Gray, said: “There is no one more fitting than Bruce Springsteen to be the first international songwriter inducted into our fellowship.
“Songwriters are powerful storytellers, who capture our lives, loves and hardships. Bruce has always told the greatest stories.
“The fellowship marks the esteem in which he is held by all those who share his craft.”
Bruce will become an Academy Fellow, the highest honour the organisation bestows.
He has sold more than 140 million records worldwide, with his countless accolades including 20 Grammys, an Oscar and a Tony Award.
Bruce has also been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, as well as being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian award.
Recognised as a pinnacle of creative musical achievement since they were first presented in 1956, winning an Ivor holds a special place in music as they are judged by award-winning songwriters and composers from The Ivors Academy.
Winners join a roll call of music’s biggest names including Adele, Stormzy, RAYE, Little Simz, Cathy Dennis, Annie Lennox, Amy Winehouse and John Lennon.
To commemorate him being named an Academy Fellow, a limited edition vinyl of ‘The Best of Bruce Springsteen’ in a ‘Jersey Devil Red’ shade can be purchased from Amazon.
This year’s Ivors nominees will be announced on Tuesday 23 April, with the winners set to be revealed at The Ivors with Amazon Music at Grosvenor House in London a month later.