Other winners included Doja Cat for BMI’s Pop Songwriter of the Year, as well as “Stay” which received Pop Song of the Year.
In attendance were some of this year’s award winners included Dan Reynolds and Wayne Sermon of Imagine Dragons for their singles “Bones” and “Enemy,” who spoke a little about their music making, as well as David Stewart, the credited songwriter on the Jonas Brothers’ single “Who’s In Your Head.”
After the carpet, we were escorted to our seats before watching a video honoring Khalid for his achievements in not only music but also his philanthropic efforts. Because they couldn’t join for the awards, several of Khalid’s collaborates, like Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas, recorded their own videos which were pieced in throughout.
Shortly after, President and CEO Mike O’Neill spoke before Khalid made his way to the stage, praising the young prodigy for being able to come up with fresh, original music with a naturally compelling voice. Barbara Cane, VP at BMI, also spoke, congratulating the 53 first-time Pop Award winners some of which were in attendance, included Lauren Spencer Smith, Skyler Stonestreet, Y2K, and Dove Cameron.
The BMI Champion Award was presented by Mike O’Neill, who again highlighted the work Khalid’s done throughout his career. In addition to releasing emotional and catchy music, the artist spends time impacting social change for children, families and communities through the power of music, raising funds in support of the El Paso Community Foundation, and far beyond through the Great Khalid Foundation.
After receiving the award, Khalid thanked BMI, his family and friends, then graced everyone with an acoustic performance of some of his biggest hits including, “Location,” “Better,” and “Talk.” Over the course of the rest of the night the 50 most-performed pop songs of the previous year in the U.S. were also revealed, leading up to BMI’s Pop Song of the Year, which went to “Stay” written by Cashmere Cat, Isaac “Zac” De Boni, Omer Fedi, Haan, The Kid LAROI (APRA), Michael “Finatik” Mulé, Charlie Puth and Blake Slatkin.
Doja Cat was another highlight from the night, who was awarded BMI’s 2023 Pop Songwriter of the Year for her numerous hits like Get Into It (Yuh), I Like You (A Happier Song), and I Need to Know. Sony Music Publishing was awarded Publisher of the Year for their numerous releases this year (Boyfriend, First Class, Vegas).
During the red carpet, we had the pleasure of talking with some this years winners. See what they had to say in the exclusive interviews below: