Singer-songwriter Carole King will receive the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award during the 33rd annual Songwriters Hall Of Fame induction ceremony in June. Hall Of Fame inductees this year include Michael Jackson, Barry Manilow, Sting, Randy Newman, and Ashford & Simpson. Also, Garth Brooks will be presented the Hitmaker Award and Stevie Wonder will be given the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Songwriter Hal David, the Hall’s chairman and CEO, said of King, “Carole King has been a tour de force in our industry ever since I can remember. She is a gifted songwriter and performer, who epitomized a wonderful era of music. I am so pleased that the Songwriters Hall Of Fame will be recognizing her outstanding accomplishments at this year’s event.”
Carole King has been writing hit songs since the ’50s. “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” recorded by the Shirelles in 1960, was King’s first Number One hit, co-written at the age of 17 with Gerry Goffin, her erstwhile husband. More King chart hits followed, including “Take Good Care Of My Baby,” recorded by Bobby Vee; “Up On The Roof,” recorded by the Drifters; “Pleasant Valley Sunday,” recorded by the Monkees; and “(You Make Me Feel) Like A Natural Woman,” recorded by Aretha Franklin.
In the ’70s, King helped usher in the era of the singer-songwriter. Her 1971 album Tapestry established her as a performer as well as a talented songwriter. More than 30 years later, Tapestry remains on the charts, and the album garnered King a total of four Grammys-a first for a woman-including best record, best song, best album and best female vocalist. Tapestry has also received a Diamond Award from the RIAA, marking the sale of 10 million albums-at more than 25 million sold to date, the collection was the best-selling album by a woman for 25 years. During her career, King also garnered three more platinum and six gold certifications.
The 33rd annual Songwriters Hall Of Fame induction and awards dinner will take place at Manhattan’s Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers on June 13.
