The nominees for the 2016 class of the Songwriters Hall of Fame were announced today and will have many wondering why these artists aren’t already in.
The Songwriters Hall told the Associated Press that the performing nominees include George Harrison, Marvin Gaye, Tom Petty, John Mellencamp, Madonna, Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Lynn,e Steve Miller, Blondie, Nile Rodgers & Bernard Edwards, Sly Stone, Gloria Estefan and The Isley Brothers.
The non-performing songwriters nominated include Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Berry Gordy, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Max Martin. That last name might sound unfamiliar to many, but he has written songs for and with Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift and The Weeknd. Rod Temperton, who is famous for writing Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and “Rock With You,” is also nominated.
Eligible members of the hall will vote for three non-performing acts, two performing acts and a deceased nominee. The inductees will be honored with an awards gala on June 6, 2016.
The 2015 class included Cyndi Lauper, Toby Keith and members of the Grateful Dead.