Bruce Springsteen to Become First International Songwriter to Receive Ivors Academy Honor

Bruce Springsteen‘s lyrics have shaped generations, defined movements and put words to the American experience. And now, his legacy will carve out yet another piece of history as he becomes the first international songwriter to be named an Ivors Academy Fellow.

Following in the footsteps of Sir Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, Joan Armatrading and Sting, Springsteen will receive the honors at The Ivors with Amazon Music ceremony in London on May 23. The accolade means that the “Born to Run” artist is also the first American musician in the organization’s 80-year history — as well as the 27th musician overall — to become an Academy Fellow, which is the highest honor one can receive from the institution.

“I’m proud to be the first international songwriter to be recognized by The Ivors Academy,” Springsteen said of the prize in a statement. “In addition to recognizing 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,” he continued. “For this, I will always remain deeply appreciative.”

As an Ivors Fellow, The Boss will be recognized for his “outstanding contribution to the craft of songwriting,” as well as his “impact on the UK’s cultural landscape,” according to a release. The accolade comes a little over a year after the 20-time Grammy winner released his 21st studio album Only the Strong Survive, which peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard 200 — a chart he’s topped 11 times over the course of his career.

“There is no one more fitting than Bruce Springsteen to be the first international songwriter inducted into our Fellowship,” added Tom Gray, Chair of The Ivors Academy. “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.”