Taylor Swift will be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame this summer, making the 36-year-old one of the youngest people ever to be welcomed into the prestigious organization.
Swift will be honored alongside her fellow class of 2026 inductees Alanis Morissette, Kenny Loggins, Christopher “Tricky” Stewart, Kiss’ Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, Terry Britten & Graham Lyle, and Walter Afanasieff.
It’s one of the latest record-breaking accomplishments that Swift can cross off her bucket list, joining the ranks of legendary musicians who became part of the Songwriters Hall of Fame at a young age. Stevie Wonder currently holds the title of the youngest ever inductee, inducted at 33 in 1983.
A writer with a “notable catalog of songs” becomes eligible for the honor after their first commercially released song turns 20 years old. In June 2006, a 15-year-old Swift released her debut country single, “Tim McGraw.” The milestone anniversary made her eligible for induction for the first time this year.
“Taylor qualified from when she was 15 years old,” President and CEO of the Songwriters Hall of Fame Linda Moran told USA Today in November when Swift was nominated. “That’s shortly after she signed her publishing deal and had her first commercial release. So age-wise, she’s the youngest, and I don’t know when we’re going to see someone that young again.”
The organization recognized Swift’s songs “All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version),” “Blank Space,” “Anti-Hero,” and “Love Story” as notable songs in her catalog.
Also to be recognized at the ceremony, slated for June 11 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City, will be Morissette, honored for her songs “You Oughta Know” and “ Ironic,” and the “King of the Movie Soundtrack,” Loggins, who was behind hits “Footloose” and “Danger Zone.”
Love Music?
Get your daily dose of everything happening in Australian/New Zealand music and globally.
R&B and pop hitmaker Christopher “Tricky” Stewart, who helped pen Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” Mariah Carey’s “Touch My Body,” Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” will be among those inducted; as well as Walter Afanasieff, a frequent collaborator of Mariah Carey’s who helped write her hits “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” “My All,” and “Hero.”
Additionally, British songwriting duo Terry Britten and Graham Lyle will be inducted, known for “What’s Love Got To Do With It” and “Devil Woman,” and KISS members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, behind anthems “Rock and Roll All Nite” and “I Love It Loud.”
Nile Rodgers, the organization’s chairman, said in a statement, “The music industry is built upon the incredible talent of songwriters who create unforgettable songs. Without their artistry, there would be no recorded music, concert experiences, or engaged fans. Everything originates from the song and its creator. We take great pride in our ongoing commitment to recognizing some of the most culturally significant composers in history. This year’s lineup not only showcases iconic songs but also celebrates unity across various genres. These songwriters have profoundly impacted the lives of billions of listeners worldwide, and it is our privilege to honor their contributions.”
From Rolling Stone US
