Awards
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Atticus Ross took home two awards at the sixth annual SCL Awards, which were held on Wednesday (Feb. 12) at Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles.
The awards are voted on by members of the Society of Composers & Lyricists, an organization of professional film, television, video game, and musical theater composers and lyricists. The event was hosted by singer-songwriter Colin Hay, best known as leader of the 1980s pop group Men at Work.
Ross won outstanding original song for a comedy or musical visual media production for “Compress/Repress,” which he co-wrote for Challengers with frequent collaborator Trent Reznor, along with the film’s director, Luca Guadagnino. Ross and collaborators Leopold Ross (his younger brother) and Nick Chuba also won outstanding original score for a television production for Shōgun.
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The win for “Compress/Repress” came after the song failed to land an Oscar nod for best original song. At the SCL Awards, “Compress/Repress” beat two songs from Emilia Pérez that were Oscar-nominated – “El Mal” and “Mi Camino.”
Top honors for film scoring went to Kris Bowers, who won original score for a studio film for The Wild Robot, and Daniel Blumberg, who won outstanding original score for an independent film for The Brutalist. Both composers are nominated for the Oscar for best original score, where they face Volker Bertelmann (Conclave), Clément Ducol and Camille (Emilia Pérez) and John Powell and Stephen Schwartz (Wicked).
Diane Warren won outstanding original song for a dramatic or documentary visual media production for her song “The Journey”from The Six Triple Eight. Warren won in this category two years ago for “Applause” from Tell It Like a Woman. “The Journey” is nominated for an Oscar for best original song, where it faces the two aforementioned songs from Emilia Pérez, plus “Never Too Late” from Elton John: Never Too Late (also nominated here) and “Like a Bird” from Sing Sing.
Warren has been nominated for an SCL Award every year. In 2023, “Applause” won in this same category, but went on to lose the Oscar to “Naatu Naatu” from RRR.
Emilia Pérez composers Clément Ducol and Camille, who tied with Atticus Ross for most SCL nominations this year (three), were shut out.
Composer Andrea Datzman received the David Raksin award for emerging talent for her score for Inside Out 2. Datzman’s mentor, Michael Giacchino, composed the score for the first Inside Out.
Composer Jeff Beal, who has won five Primetime Emmys, received the SCL Jury Award for his new score for the 1920 Weimar Cinema silent film classic, The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari.
Composer Harry Gregson-Williams and director Ridley Scott received the Spirit of Collaboration Award, which recognizes a composer/director relationship that has created a prodigious body of work. This year’s Gladiator II marks their seventh collaboration. In his previous collaborations with Scott, Gregson-Williams has written the original scores for The Martian, Kingdom of Heaven, The Last Duel, and House of Gucci, as well as themes for Prometheus and Exodus: Gods and Kings.
Last year, Martin Scorsese received the Spirit of Collaboration Award for his work with the late composer Robbie Robertson. Other past award recipients of this award include Thomas Newman & Sam Mendes, Terence Blanchard & Spike Lee, Carter Burwell & the Coen Brothers, and Justin Hurwitz & Damien Chazelle.
Here’s the complete list of nominees for the 2025 SCL Awards, with winners marked.
Outstanding Original Score for a Studio Film
Clement Ducol, Camille – Emilia Perez (Netflix)
Hans Zimmer – Dune: Part Two (Warner Bros. Pictures / Legendary Pictures)
Harry Gregson-Williams – Gladiator II (Paramount Pictures)
John Powell, Stephen Schwartz – Wicked: Part 1 (Universal Pictures)
WINNER: Kris Bowers – The Wild Robot (DreamWorks Animation)
Volker Bertelmann – Conclave (Focus Features)
Outstanding Original Score for an Independent Film
Chris Bacon – Heretic (A24)
WINNER: Daniel Blumberg – The Brutalist (A24)
Dara Taylor – Meet Me Next Christmas (Roberts Media)
Fabrizio Mancinelli – Here After (Artina Films, ClaRo Productions, Fenix Entertainment, Hopscotch Pictures)
Heather McIntosh – Winner (Big Beach, One Community, Scythia Films, ShivHans Pictures)
Stephanie Economou – The Book of Jobs (Bull’s Eye Entertainment, Rebellium Films)
Outstanding Original Song for a Dramatic or Documentary Visual Media Production
Andrew Wyatt, Lykke Li, Miley Cyrus – “Beautiful That Way” (from The Last Showgirl) (Utopia Media, High Frequency Entertainment, Pinky Promise, Detour, Digital Ignition Entertainment)
Bear McCreary – “Old Tom Bombadil” (from The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power) (Amazon MGM Studios in association with New Line Cinema / Prime Video)
Christopher Lennertz – “Let’s Put the Christ Back in Christmas” (from The Boys) (Prime Video)
WINNER: Diane Warren – “The Journey” (from The Six Triple Eight) (Netflix)
Elton John, Brandi Carlile, Bernie Taupin, Andrew Watt – “Never Too Late” (from Elton John: Never Too Late) (Disney Branded Television, This Machine Filmworks, Rocket Entertainment)
Nicholas Britell, Steve McQueen, Taura Stinson – “Winter Coat” (from Blitz) (Apple Original Films)
Outstanding Original Song for a Comedy or Musical Visual Media Production
Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear – “Beyond” (from Moana 2) (Disney)
Clement Ducol, Camille – “Mi Camino” (from Emilia Perez) (Why Not Productions, Page 114, Pathé, France 2 Cinéma, Saint Laurent Productions)
Clement Ducol, Camille, Jacques Audiard – “El Mal” (from Emilia Perez) (Why Not Productions, Page 114, Pathé, France 2 Cinéma, Saint Laurent Productions)
Lainey Wilson, Luke Dick, Shane McAnally – “Out of Oklahoma” (from Twisters) (Universal Pictures)
Robbie Williams, Freddy Wexler, Sacha Skarbek – “Forbidden Road” (from Better Man) (Paramount Pictures)
WINNER: Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross & Luca Guadagnino – “Compress/Repress” (from Challengers) (Amazon MGM Studios)
Outstanding Original Title Sequence for a Television Production
Atticus Ross, Leopold Ross, Nick Chuba – Shōgun (FX Network)
Blake Neely – Masters of the Air (Apple TV+)
Carlos Rafael Rivera – Griselda (Netflix)
Danielle Ponder – Manhunt (Apple TV+)
WINNER: Jeff Toyne – Palm Royale (Apple TV+)
Nami Melumad – Dream Productions (Pixar Animation Studios / Disney+)
Outstanding Original Score for a Television Production
WINNER: Atticus Ross, Leopold Ross, Nick Chuba – Shōgun (FX Network)
Bear McCreary – The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Amazon MGM Studios in association with New Line Cinema / Prime Video)
Blake Neely – Masters of the Air (Apple TV+)
David Fleming – Mr. and Mrs. Smith (Amazon MGM Studios)
Finneas O’Connell – Disclaimer (Apple TV+)
Jeff Toyne – Palm Royale (Apple TV+)
Outstanding Original Score for Interactive Media
Gordy Haab – Indiana Jones and the Great Circle (Machine Games, Bethesda Studios, Lucasfilm Games)
Nainita Desai – Tales of Kenzera: Zau (Surgent Studios, EA)
Wilbert Roget, II – Star Wars: Outlaws (Massive Entertainment, Ubisoft)
WINNER: Winifred Phillips – Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord (Digital Eclipse)
David Raksin Award for Emerging Talent
WINNER: Andrea Datzman – Inside Out 2 (Disney/Pixar Animation Studios)
Emily Rice – Broken Bird (Catalyst Studios, Mitchell-Brunt Films)
Katya Richardson – Motorcycle Mary (Breakwater Studios)
Nikhil Koparkar – Dead Whisper (Howlin’ Hounds Pictures, Brothers Gran Productions)
Robin Carolan – Nosferatu (Focus Features)
Wei-San Hsu – Invisible Nation (100 Chapters Productions, Double Hope Films, Seine Pictures)
About four months ago, Billy Idol was in Cleveland to sing “No More Tears” as part of Ozzy Osbourne’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction.
Asked backstage about Osbourne’s comment that Idol himself should be inducted, he noted that, “It was really lovely of him to say so. It would be really incredible.”
Now it may indeed be Idol’s turn.
The man born William Broad in England, made famous as part of Generation X and then a solo career that’s notched hits such as “White Wedding,” “Rebel Yell,” “Eyes Without a Face” and “Dancing With Myself,” is one of eight first-timers out of 14 nominees on this year’s Rock Hall ballot, which was announced Wednesday morning (Feb. 12). Public voting is underway at vote.rockhall.com, and the inductees are expected to be announced during late April, with the ceremony held this fall in Los Angeles.
“It’s pretty incredible,” Idol told Billboard via phone from Los Angeles. “I’m really knocked out. It’s really fantastic, and what a great honor just to be included with those other fellow artists on that list. It caught me by surprise today, and I was completely bowled over.”
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Idol has been eligible since 2006 as a solo artist, but he said he’s never thought of himself as slighted or overlooked. “Well, there’s so many great people who have yet to be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — someone like [fellow nominee] Joe Cocker, for instance,” he noted. “So of course you don’t tend to think about yourself.
“I think in some ways it’s a big thank-you to the fans, who really have stuck with you through thick and thin — sometimes more thin than thick. But they’ve really stuck with you. In some ways, if you’re in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, they are [too].”
Idol began his career as a guitar player in the punk band Chelsea before forming Generation X with guitarist Tony James in 1976. The group released four albums and had British hits with “Your Generation,” “King Rocker” and “Valley of the Dolls” before breaking up in early 1981. Idol then moved to New York, working with former Kiss manager Bill Aucoin. His first EP, Don’t Stop, featured a remake of Generation X’s “Dancing With Myself” and a cover of Tommy James and the Shondells’ “Mony Mony,” but his self-titled 1982 debut was the real breakthrough, going gold on the strength of “White Wedding” and “Hot in the City,” and a warm embrace from MTV.
That helped make Rebel Yell even bigger in 1983, a double-platinum, top 10 Billboard 200 smash that turned Idol into an arena-sized headliner.
“It’s just kind of incredible ’cause you never could have imagined this when you began,” said Idol, who’s released eight studio albums total and has another coming this year, with details expected to be announced soon. “When we started out in punk rock, we really were doing it for the love. We thought this might last six minutes, six months, maybe a year, maybe two years. We’re nearly talking about 50 years now.
“Look, if you do something for the right reasons, it can take you the whole way. Just to have lived this life, to have this musical life, at one point it was a dream. To get to live your dream, that’s pretty incredible.”
Idol has been in the Rock Hall already via one of his Harley-Davidson motorcycles, which is on display in the museum in Cleveland. He visited during October’s induction festivities and reports that “it’s beautiful seeing it there. They’ve done a good job of taking care of it.”
The Osbourne induction, Idol adds, was “really good fun. Playing with [producer] Andrew Watt and Wolfgang Van Halen and everybody, it was an incredible night. The vibe amongst everybody was fantastic, and to feel the sort of energy and excitement of the fans being there. Just getting to thank the fans is an incredible moment.”
While the Rock Hall voting is going on, Idol will be rolling out the new album and prepping for the It’s A Nice Day To…Tour Again! trek that kicks off April 30 in Phoenix and runs through late September. Idol will be joined by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, reconnecting with someone he met during a Generation X press tour back in 1978.
“We ended up in L.A., watching the Germs and Black Flag at the Whisky a Go Go with Joan and about 20 other girls [in] go-go boots and short mini-skirts,” Idol recalls. “It was great meeting her. It should be a really fantastic [tour], a good time.”
When looking back on his husband Sir Elton John‘s storied career in the music industry, David Furnish points out that there is a lot to be proud of. Yet, when thinking about that legacy in connection to the future, Furnish settles on one aspect of John’s career that makes him proudest: the pair’s work with the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Dedicated to ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic for good, the organization — which was founded by the singer in 1992 — makes headlines every year with their glitzy, star-studded Academy Awards Viewing Party. Over the course of 33 years, the annual benefit, held on Oscars night, has helped raise over $100 million for the organization’s fight against the virus.
“Things go in and out of fashion and change with the times,” Furnish explains. “But every year, to see that everybody keeps stepping up? That just blows our minds.”
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The 2025 iteration of the event promises to be just as much of a spectacle — along with being co-hosted by John, Furnish, and actors Jean Smart, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka, the viewing party is also set to feature an exclusive performance from pop phenomenon Chappell Roan. (Tickets to the party are still available on the organization’s website.)
“We’re always passionate about bringing in great, new, rising talent where we can,” Furnish says of the “Pink Pony Club” singer, before pausing and correcting himself with a laugh. “Well, she’s already risen pretty quickly, and I’d say she’s arrived.”
Below, Furnish speaks with Billboard ahead of the annual fundraiser about his admiration for Roan, the evolution of the gala and why the fight against HIV & AIDS related stigma is far from over.
This year is the 33rd Oscars viewing party that Elton has thrown — in the time that you’ve been involved, how have you seen this party evolve into what it is today?
It’s been an extraordinarily gratifying and rewarding experience. I mean, the fact that we continue to host the premiere fundraising event on Oscar night, that we have that tentpole for our organization… not only does it give us a superb fundraising opportunity to raise much-needed funds, but it also is a tremendous profile opportunity to, one one of the biggest entertainment nights of the year, get the support that we do from the people that come to the party.
One of the most important things in the fight against HIV and AIDS is that we are not finished yet. We’ve seen tremendous progress and tremendous success with the medications, and a lot of people are under the impression that this disease is essentially cured. But consistency is the most important thing in this fight. We have an end in sight, we have our eye focused on the finish line, and we have all of the science and medication that we need to basically end AIDS for good. But we have to be consistent, we have to keep going.
I always say to Elton, “We always have tremendous attendance, we always have a great auction, you’d think after doing it for so many years it might kind of taper off.” But I kind of turn cartwheels as I come out the door every year, because I think, “Oh my god, this is as big or bigger than it’s ever been.” Every year, it continues to get such an extraordinary level of support from the sponsors, from the ticket buyers, from the auction donors, from the performers, from the people who help co-host.
Speaking of performers, you guys got an excellent one this year. You and Elton have been close with Chappell Roan over the last few months — what made you decide to bring her in as the performer this year?
Oh, loads of reasons! First and foremost, she is an unbelievably brilliant performer. We went to see her at the Brixton Academy in London — her command of the stage, her band, her way of delivering her songs, her connection with the audience, her voice, her performance, her visual, everything about her is just like, “Wow.”
She’s also had a fantastic year! She’s really risen so quickly, and has been received so enthusiastically, with great song after great song. I mean, look at that best new artist Grammy this year! But I’m sure that she’s had a lot of requests for her time, and she’s at that stage when you have to keep investing in yourself to grow — and the fact that she so identifies with our cause, and relates so much with our journey and our mission of making sure we put our arms around everybody and that no one gets left behind, is amazing.
It’s that magical combination of the most brilliant artist, at such an extraordinary moment in their career, who is also so connected with this issue. We are just counting our lucky stars. It’s so great that she was available, and so happy to do it, and so joyful about understanding what it really means and wanting to make the best contribution.
We’re at a cultural moment where the stigma-combatting work organizations like yours do is more vital than ever. Can you describe what the EJAF is doing to actively fight against anti-LGBTQ+ and AIDS-related stigma on a daily basis?
Yeah, we want to share the positive messaging that you live a full, happy, healthy life with HIV. When properly treated, you don’t pass the virus on to anyone else, it is nothing to be afraid of and it is nothing to be ashamed of. The programs we’re able to take the money [from this event] and invest in all go a very long way.
It’s about communication, education, breaking down stigma, outreach within key communities and key populations — making sure people have access to testing and know their HIV status, and then once they know their HIV status, having access to the right treatment to deal with the virus headfirst. If they don’t test positive, then it’s about being able to use the latest advancements in science to protect themselves from contracting HIV. If people test positive, then we make sure they have the appropriate counseling and support so that they can live positively and proudly with HIV.
It’s a disease that took hold and thrived in the shadows and corridors of shame. In the It’s a Sin TV series in Britain, Callum Howells’ character says, “I feel so dirty.” There was so much shame associated with it, and we’ve gone so far beyond that now, and we need to continue to reach out and find the key groups that are affected so we can make sure that none of that messaging continues to linger or stick around. We want to make people feel empowered and supported.
This is a celebration on top of a celebration, because Elton is nominated for best original song at this year’s ceremony alongside Brandi Carlile for “Never Too Late.” What does that mean to the two of you, to have Elton at this stage of his career still receiving these major nods?
We’re just so thrilled. There’s so many amazing things connected with nomination — it’s not just Elton, but also Brandi and Andrew Watt and Bernie Taupin, and they are like extended family for Elton and me. The fact that the song became the closing point for the documentary I directed with R.J. Cutler, and even the overall messaging of saying that it’s never too late to change your life and find hope, that there can always be a positive outcome and a happy ending if you work for it; the Oscar represents all of that, to us. Also, oh my god, it’s an Oscar nomination! It’s such an amazing honor, and Elton is incredibly proud.
He and Bernie got the Oscar [for The Lion King‘s “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?”] as the first major award they’d won as songwriters — they’d never won a Grammy at that point. This time around, for Brandi and Andrew to be a part of the process of creating the song, Elton is so excited for them, as well as for himself and Bernie. Yeah, I mean, we’re all just very thrilled.
And what an excellent prelude to Elton and Brandi’s album coming out later this year, too.
Yeah! It’s a wonderful album. Brandi started the process on this song before the album started, because I screened the documentary for her the summer before everybody went into the studio to start on the album. I knew Brandi was a huge fan and understood Elton’s history so well, so I wanted her to see the film. She was so profoundly moved by it, that she wrote this lyric before she went into the studio and started working on it. It’s been an amazing journey.
After defying gravity in 2024’s Wicked, Cynthia Erivo has raked in plenty of nominations during the 2025 awards season. Now, she’s add at least one trophy to her collection. On Wednesday (Feb. 12), LGBTQ+ advocacy group GLAAD announced that Erivo would be the recipient of its annual Stephen F. Kolzak prize at the 2025 GLAAD […]
Women dominated this year in music, and Billboard is ready to celebrate today’s groundbreaking artists at its annual Women in Music event.
This year’s honorees include a diverse group of artists, ranging from rising stars to seminal veterans, from pop and country, to R&B, Latin and beyond. The 2025 event will honor aespa, Ángela Aguilar, Erykah Badu, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, JENNIE, Megan Moroney, Meghan Trainor, Muni Long and Tyla.
Laverne Cox will host the 2025 Billboard Women in Music event, which will take place Saturday, March 29, at YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, California.
Presenters, performers and the coveted 2025 Billboard Woman of the Year will be announced in the coming weeks.
“The 2025 Billboard Women in Music celebrates the incredible women who continue to drive innovation, inspire change, and reshape the future of music,” Dana Droppo, Billboard‘s Chief Brand Officer, said in a statement.
Billboard‘s Editor-in-Chief, Hannah Karp, added, “From rising stars to legendary icons, this year’s honorees are redefining what it means to be a trailblazer in the industry. We’re honored to highlight their outstanding achievements and contributions through unforgettable performances, powerful tributes, and an evening that will truly shine a spotlight on their impact. It’s a privilege to continue Billboard’s tradition of recognizing the women who are pushing the boundaries of music and culture, and we can’t wait to share this incredible night with our global audience.”
Sponsors for the 2025 Billboard Women in Music event include official whisky Partner Crown Royal, HarbourView Equity Partners, Bose and Honda Stage, the presenter of the Rising Star Award.
A limited quantity of early access tickets will be available for purchase on Wednesday (Feb. 12) starting at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT with code WIM25. Public on-sale then begins Thursday (Feb. 13) at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT via Ticketmaster here. Prices begin at $89.
See below for the full list of 2025 Billboard Women in Music honorees so far.
aespa: Group of the Year
02/12/2025
Here’s how we handicap this year’s class of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees and their respective chances of induction.
02/12/2025
After decades of eligibility, Bad Company’s future in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame seemed to be, as the song says, a “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy.”
Now the English supergroup finds itself nominated for the Rock Hall’s class of 2025, one of eight first-timers on the shortlist of 14.
“Bad Company fans and friends have been lobbying for this nomination persistently for years and they never gave up, so big thanks to them,” frontman Paul Rodgers tells Billboard. “According to them, Bad Company fits all of the criteria and then some to be inducted.” Drummer Simon Kirke, however, is more inclined to also note that it’s about time.
“I think it’s been a long time coming,” he says from his current home in New York City. “It has rankled me a bit. We’ve been around a long time and we’ve influenced a lot of bands, and I think it’s a place that we deserve. I’m just pleased that we’re at least on the ballot. I’m happy and I’m honored, and fingers crossed that we make it.”
Formed during 1973 in London, Bad Company brought together Rodgers and Kirke from Free, guitarist Mick Ralphs from Mott the Hoople and bassist Boz Burrell, fresh out of King Crimson. The group was managed by the legendary Peter Grant and signed to Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song label. Its self-titled 1974 debut hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200, going five-times platinum and launching enduring rock radio hits such as “Can’t Get Enough” (No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100), “Movin’ On” (No. 19) and the song “Bad Company.”
Four of the band’s other 11 studio albums went platinum or better, as did the 1985 compilation 10 From 6. All told Bad Company sold more than 40 million records worldwide, with a cadre of other top 40 Hot 100 hits such as “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” “Young Blood,” “Shooting Star” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy.”
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“Leaving behind those three bands that had become a bit of a millstone around our necks, there was certainly an element of hope and a fresh start,” Kirke recalls. “We just basically wanted a fresh start from our old bands, so it was like a phoenix rising from the ashes. I remember when Paul started singing these songs that Mick had written, ‘Can’t Get Enough’ and ‘Ready For Love’…it was really exciting. We just hoped that it was something that would be around for awhile, and here we are 50 years later.”
Rodgers, who splits time between British Columbia and Palm Springs, Calif., says he and Ralphs actually had different visions at the outset of Bad Company. “(Ralphs) recently told me that he thought that we would form a duo like the Everly Brothers. This was a surprise to me,” he says. “For myself after Free imploded…I was determined that my next band would have the best management and we did. Peter Grant was the most powerful, creative manager at the time and he was a large, large part of Bad Company’s success. It is particularly obvious to me now as we celebrate our 50th anniversary, and I look around and hear so many talented musicians who are not getting the break they need to reach the masses. I hope they find their Peter Grant.”
The original Bad Company foursome came to a stop in 1982. Ralphs and Kirke resumed from 1986-99 with a succession of other musicians — and had some success with the platinum Holy Water album in 1990 and singles such as the title track, “How About That,” “If You Needed Somebody” and “No Smoke Without Fire.” The original foursome reunited during 1989-99, playing live and releasing four new songs on The ‘Original’ Bad Co. Anthology. Burrell passed away in 1999 from a heart attack at 60, and Rodgers and Kirke reformed Bad Company two years later, with Ralphs coming back on board from 2008-2016, when a stroke rendered him unable to continue touring. (Rich Robinson of the Black Crowes, also nominated for the Rock Hall this year, was an additional guitarist during 2016).
Bad Company last toured during 2019, and Kirke confirms that “I think it’s safe to say (the band’s) playing days are pretty much over.”
He and Rodgers are still active, however. Though Rodgers is also battling health issues — he’s suffered several strokes since 2016 and 2019 — he released the solo album Midnight Rose during 2023 and is continuing to write new material. Kirke, meanwhile, has written a stage musical about addiction that’s currently being shopped and is planning to record his fourth solo album during the spring.
Both men, and likely Ralphs, will be watching the Rock Hall voting period play out, too — if not with bated breath, then certainly with interest. “My hope,” Rodgers says, “is if we are going to be inducted, let it be while Mick is still here. I do hope that the induction happens while Mick can experience, it too.”
The 2025 nominees for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame were revealed early Wednesday (Feb. 12) morning. Of the 14 nominees who appear on this year’s ballot, only some of them (likely about half) will be inducted into the institution later this year as the Rock Hall’s Class of 2025. Explore Explore See latest […]
Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of The Recording Academy, and Ben Winston, a founding partner of Fulwell Entertainment, will be named 2025 Music Visionaries of the Year at the UJA-Federation of New York’s Music Visionary of the Year Award Celebration. The event, which is marking its 25th anniversary, will be held on June 16 in New York City.
The announcement was made just nine days after Mason and Winston worked together on the 67th annual Grammy Awards telecast. Winston was an executive producer of the show, along with Raj Kapoor and Jesse Collins.
“We are thrilled to honor Harvey and Ben as our 2025 UJA Music Visionaries of the Year,” Daniel Glass, founder/CEO of Glassnote Records, chair of UJA’s Music Division and co-chair of UJA’s overall Entertainment division, said in a statement. “They have not only shaped the future of sound and storytelling, but Harvey and Ben also brought that same passion and vision to this year’s Grammy weekend and award show, respectively, rising to the occasion in the wake of devastation to help showcase music’s unparalleled power to heal, unite, and uplift. Beyond their remarkable contributions to the industry, their commitment to making a meaningful impact truly sets them apart.”
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As the first Black CEO of The Recording Academy, Mason has diversified the voting membership and revised rules and processes to make the Grammy Awards more transparent, inclusive and reflective of a wide variety of music genres. He has also enlarged the Academy’s role as a service organization for music creators and restructured the organization to position it for global growth.
Mason is the founder of Harvey Mason Media and a five-time Grammy nominee. He has written and/or produced songs for such artists as Whitney Houston, Beyonce, Elton John, Justin Timberlake, Aretha Franklin, Ariana Grande, Britney Spears, Justin Bieber and Michael Jackson.
Winston is a producer, director and founding partner of Fulwell Entertainment. He has won 13 Primetime Emmy Awards — eight for various iterations of the James Corden vehicle Carpool Karaoke; three more for other programs hosted by Corden (including the 2016 Tony Awards); and two for acclaimed variety specials headlined by pop superstars: Adele: One Night Only and Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium.
In 2019, Winston received eight Primetime Emmy nominations — a one-year record for an individual. In 2024, he produced the Paris to Los Angeles Olympics handover, a prelude to the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Funds raised at the luncheon will go toward UJA’s annual campaign supporting the work of confronting antisemitism, promoting inclusion and caring for New Yorkers of all backgrounds. A portion of the proceeds will also support UJA’s Music for Youth, which helps young people connect to life-changing music programs.
Working with a network of hundreds of nonprofits, UJA extends its reach from New York to Israel to nearly 70 other countries around the world, touching the lives of 5.5 million people annually. Every year, UJA-Federation provides approximately $180 million in grants. For more information, visit ujafedny.org.
Tate McRae and Josh Ross have received the most nominations for the 2025 Juno Awards, with five apiece. The two artists will compete against each other in single of the year, album of the year, artist of the year and TikTok fan choice award.
Shawn Mendes and The Weeknd follow with four nominations each, while Karan Aujla and AP Dhillon each score three.
McRae — the Alberta pop singer whose “Greedy” took her to global heights in 2023 — won single of the year and artist of the year at the 2024 Junos. She was not in attendance to accept either award. This year, she could sweep all the major categories except for breakthrough artist, in which she was nominated in 2021.
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Ross is a breakout country singer from Ontario, and his five nominations show the strength of the genre in Canada. He joins McRae in the artist of the year category, alongside dance music producer Kaytranada, who was up for three Grammys this year with his third LP, Timeless; Mendes, who made a highly anticipated comeback with folk album Shawn; and The Weeknd, who released several charting singles in 2024. (His Hurry Up Tomorrow doesn’t qualify for this year’s awards, so he could be primed for another big year next year.)
Ross has had a major year, with his track “Single Again” — up for single of the year — charting on the Billboard Canadian Hot 100 and topping the Canadian Country Airplay chart. He picked up five Canadian Country Music Association Awards in 2024, but if he prevails in one or more of his highly competitive categories, it would mark his first Juno win(s).
Beyond McRae’s domination and Ross’ breakthrough, the nominations show the continued rise of the Punjabi Wave in Canada. Last year, Karan Aujla took home the fan choice award, which showed belated industry recognition for the exploding genre. This year, Aujla is up for single of the year as well with the aptly-titled “Winning Speech.”
This year, the Junos are introducing a South Asian music recording category, with AP Dhillon; Chani Nattan, Inderpal Moga & Jazz B; Jonita Gandhi; and Sandeep Narayan and Yanchal Produced all up for the inaugural award alongside Aujla.
But it’s not just that category where South Asian music is shining through — Dhillon is nominated for breakthrough artist and songwriter of the year.
AR Paisley is also up for breakthrough artist, as is Sukha, who also scored a nomination in best album with Undisputed. That’s a marked increase in representation for South Asian music and, in particular, Punjabi artists, from last year, as the wave continues to crest.
Canadian pop-rock icons and Billboard Canada cover stars Sum 41 are up for group of the year, where they’ll compete against Crash Adams, Mother Mother, Spiritbox and last year’s winner, The Beaches. They also picked up a nomination for rock album of the year with their final album, Heaven :x: Hell, and they will receive a special induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame during the ceremony.
In the big categories, it’s not as strong a year for women nominees — McRae is the only woman nominated for single of the year, artist of the year, and fan choice (especially notable in fan choice, which has 10 total nominees). In album of the year, Inuk singer Elisapie and Quebecois artist Roxane Bruneau compete alongside McRae against Ross and Sukha.
The breakthrough artist category is where things get the most interesting. The Junos have increased that category from five to 10 nominees this year, and the move allows for a real breadth of talent to shine through, with nominees ranging from country to soul to Punjabi hip-hop and more. Palestinian-Canadian alt-pop auteur Nemahsis is up for the category (she’s also nominated in alternative album of the year), as is Vancouver emo-pop artist Ekkstacy and Montreal R&B-pop artist Zeina, who broke through with Billboard Canadian Hot 100-charting “Hooked.”
In the genre-specific categories, three categories that were reportedly in danger of disappearing did return this year. Following public outcry last fall, the Junos recommitted to the reggae recording of the year; contemporary Christian/gospel album of the year; and children’s album of the year categories.
The nominees in reggae recording include the late trailblazer Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry for his work with Bob Riddim on Destiny and Canadian reggae leader Exco Levi’s Born To Be Free. In children’s album, Lheidli T’enneh singer-songwriter Kym Gouchie is nominated for Shun Beh Nats’ujeh: We Are Healing Through Songs as well as iconic entertainer Raffi for his Good Lovelies collaboration, Penny Penguin.
The 2025 Juno Awards, hosted by Michael Bublé, will be held March 30 in Vancouver, broadcast on CBC at 8 P.M. ET.
Here’s the full list of nominations for the 2025 Juno Awards.
TikTok Juno Fan Choice
bbno$, Independent*Stem
Dean Brody, Starseed
Jade Eagleson, Starseed
Josh Ross, Universal
Karan Aujla, Independent
Les Cowboys Fringants, Les Disques de La Tribu*Propagande
Preston Pablo, Universal
Shawn Mendes, Universal
Tate McRae, RCA*Sony
The Weeknd, XO*Universal
Artist of the year
Josh Ross, Universal
Kaytranada, RCA*Sony
Shawn Mendes, Island*Universal
Tate McRae, RCA*Sony
The Weeknd, XO*Universal
Group of the year
Crash Adams, Warner
Mother Mother, Warner
Spiritbox, BMG*Universal
Sum 41, Rise/BMG*Universal
The Beaches, Independent*AWAL
Single of the year
“Single Again,” Josh Ross, Universal
“Winning Speech,” Karan Aujla, Independent
“Why Why Why,” Shawn Mendes, Island*Universal
“exes,” Tate McRae, RCA*Sony
“Timeless,” The Weeknd & Playboi Carti, XO*Universal
Album of the year
Inuktitut, Elisapie, Bonsound*Sony
Complicated, Josh Ross, Universal
Submergé, Roxane Bruneau, Disques Artic*Sony
UNDISPUTED, Sukha, GK*Universal
THINK LATER, Tate McRae, RCA*Sony
Breakthrough artist or group of the year
Alexander Stewart, FAE*The Orchard
AP Dhillon, Republic*Universal
AR Paisley, Warner
Chris Grey, Rebellion Records
EKKSTACY, Dine Alone*The Orchard
Nemahsis, Independent
Owen Riegling, Universal
Sukha, GK*Universal
Tony Ann, Decca*Universal
Zeina, Artist Partner Group
Songwriter of the year
Abel Tesfaye
AP Dhillon
Jessie Reyez
Mustafa
Nemah Hasan (Nemahsis)
Songwriter of the year (non-performer)
Evan Blair
Lowell
Nathan Ferraro
Shaun Frank
Tobias Jesso Jr.
Jack Richardson producer of the year
Aaron Paris
Akeel Henry
Evan Blair
Jack Rochon
Shawn Everett
Recording engineer of the year
George Seara
Hill Kourkoutis
Mitch McCarthy
Serban Ghenea
Shawn Everett
Classical album of the year (solo artist)
Signature Philip Glass, Angèle Dubeau & La Pietà, Analekta*Naxos/The Orchard
Messiaen, Barbara Hannigan, Alpha Classics*Naxos
freezing, Emily D’Angelo, Deutsche Grammophon*Universal
Butterfly Lightning Shakes the Earth, India Gailey, Red Shift*Believe
Williams Violin Concerto No. 1; Bernstein Serenade, James Ehnes, Pentatone*Naxos/The Orchard
Classical album of the year (small ensemble)
Known To Dreamers: Black Voices in Canadian Art Song, Canadian Art Song Project, Centrediscs*Canadian Music Centre/Naxos
Rituæls, collectif9, Analekta*Naxos/The Orchard
East is East, Infusion Baroque, Leaf*Naxos
Marie Hubert: Fille du Roy, Karina Gauvin, ATMA*Universal
Kevin Lau: Under a Veil of Stars, St. John–Mercer–Park Trio, Leaf*Naxos
Classical album of the year (large ensemble)
Ispiciwin, Luminous Voices, Leaf*Naxos
Alikeness, Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra Sinfonia, conducted by/dirigé par Mark Fewer featuring Aiyun Huang, Deantha Edmunds and Mark Fewer, Leaf*Naxos
Sibelius 2 & 5, Orchestre Métropolitain, conducted by/dirigé par Yannick Nézet-Séguin, ATMA*Universal
Schoenberg: Pelleas und Melisande & Verklärte Nacht, Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, conducted by/dirigé par Rafael Payare, Pentatone*Naxos/PIAS
Messiaen: Turangalîla-Symphonie, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, conducted by/dirigé par Gustavo Gimeno featuring Marc-André Hamelin and Nathalie Forget, Harmonia Mundi
Jazz album of the year (solo)
Montreal Jazz Series 1 (Échanges Synaptiques), André Leroux, Disques BG*Believe
The Head of a Mouse, Audrey Ochoa, Chronograph*Fontana North
Portrait of Right Now, Jocelyn Gould, Independent
Slice of Life, Larnell Lewis, Independent
The Antrim Coast, Mark Kelso, Modica
Jazz album of the year (group)
Time Will Tell, Andy Milne and Unison, Sunnyside*AMPED
Reverence, Carn Davidson 9, Independent
Harbour, Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra, Justin Time*F.A.B./Nettwerk
Gravity, Jeremy Ledbetter Trio, Independent
Jaya, Raagaverse, Independent
Vocal jazz album of the year
Oh Mother, Andrea Superstein, Cellar*La Reserve
Hello! How Are You?, Caity Gyorgy, La Reserve*The Orchard
Winter Song, Kellylee Evans, Independent
Wintersongs, Laila Biali, Independent/Believe
Magpie, Sarah Jerrom, TPR*Outside In
Instrumental album of the year
Disaster Pony, Disaster Pony, Independent*The Orchard
Distant Places, Eric Bearclaw, Independent
Ginger Beef, Ginger Beef, Independent
memory palace, Intervals, Independent*Believe
Confluencias, Melón Jimenez & Lara Wong, Independent
Blues album of the year
This Old Life, Big Dave McLean, Cordova Bay*Fontana North
New Orleans Sessions, Blue Moon Marquee, Independent
YEAH!, David Gogo, Cordova Bay*Fontana North
Samantha King and the Midnight Outfit, Samantha King & The Midnight Outfit, Independent
One Guitar Woman, Sue Foley, Stony Plain*Fontana North
Traditional roots album of the year
Hemispheres, Inn Echo, Independent
Retro Man … More and More (Expanded Edition), Jake Vaadeland, Jayward*The Orchard Domino!, La Bottine Souriante, LABE*Sony/The Orchard
The Road Back Home (Live), Loreena McKennitt, Independent*Universal
At The End of the Day, Sylvia Tyson, Stony Plain*Fontana North
Contemporary roots album of the year
Anniversary, Abigail Lapell, Outside
For Eden, Boy Golden, Six Shooter*The Orchard
Things Were Never Good If They’re Not Good Now, Donovan Woods, End Times*The Orchard Pathways, Julian Taylor, Howling Turtle*ADA
Strange Medicine, Kaia Kate,r acronym*The Orchard
Country album of the year
The Compass Project – West Album, Brett Kissel, Independent*Universal
Dallas Smith, Dallas Smith, Big Loud*Universal
Complicated, Josh Ross, Universal
Nobody’s Born With A Broken Heart, MacKenzie Porter, Big Loud*Universal
Going Home, Tyler Joe Miller, Independent*The Orchard
Adult alternative album of the year
Inuktitut, Elisapie, Bonsound*Sony/The Orchard
Revelation, Leif Vollebekk, Secret City*F.A.B.
Healing Power, Terra Lightfoot, Sonic Unyon*Universal
We were born here, what’s your excuse?, The Secret Beach, Victory Pool*The Orchard
Never Better, Wild Rivers, Nettwerk*F.A.B./Nettwerk
Alternative album of the year
When a Thought Grows Wings, Luna Li, In Real Life*AWAL
Verbathim, Nemahsis, Independent
Magpie, Peach Pit, Columbia*Sony
What’s The Point, Ruby Waters, Independent*Dine Alone
Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden, Valley, Universal
Rock album of the year
Pages, Big Wreck, Sonic Unyon*Universal
Vices, JJ Wilde, Black Box
Grief Chapter, Mother Mother, Warner
Set Your Pussy Free, NOBRO, Dine Alone*The Orchard
Heaven :x: Hell, Sum 41, Rise/BMG*Universal
Metal/hard music album of the year
Beyond the Reach of the Sun, Anciients, Season of Mist*The Orchard
PowerNerd, Devin Townsend, InsideOutMusic*Sony
Fire, Kittie, Sumerian*Virgin
The Fear of Fear, Spiritbox, BMG*Universal
ULTRAPOWER, Striker, Independent
Adult contemporary album of the year
Roses, Aphrose, Independent
Boundless Possibilities, Celeigh Cardinal, Independent
Transitions, Kellie Loder, Independent*Warner
Songs of Love & Death, Maddee Ritter, Independent*Universal
Lovers’ Gothic, Maïa Davies, acronym
Pop album of the year
bleeding heart, Alexander Stewart, FAE*The Orchard
if this is it…, Jamie Fine, Universal
Anywhere But Here, Preston Pablo, 31 East*Universal
Shawn, Shawn Mendes, Island*Universal
THINK LATER, Tate McRae, RCA*Sony
Dance recording of the year
UH HUH, DijahSB, Never Worry*The Orchard
No Time, Interplanetary Criminal & SadBo,i Room Two*Columbia
Give in to you, REZZ, Virtual Riot & One True God, Monstercat
Call Me When, So Sus, Independent
FOUL TASTE, WAWA, Independent
Underground dance single of the year
“Bamboo,” Ciel, Independent
“Keepsake,” Destrata, Independent
“Distant Memories,” Hernan Cattaneo, Hicky & Kalo, Independent
“La Vérité,” Jesse Mac Cormack, Charlie Houston & Brö, Secret City*F.A.B
“WTP,” Suray Sertin, Altered States*Universal
Electronic album of the year
Honey, Caribou, Merge*F.A.B
Union, ÈBONY, Independent*ADA
Love, Care, Kindness & Hope, Fred Everything, Lazy Days*Prime Direct
Timeless, Kaytranada, RCA*Sony
This but More, Priori, NAFF*One Eye Witness
Rap single of the year
“People,” Classified, Independent
“Double the Fun,” Haviah Mighty, Independent
“SHUT UP,” Jessie Reyez, FMLY/Island*Universal
“BBE,” Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Sony
“Hier encore,” Souldia & Lost, Disques 7ième Ciel
Rap album/EP of the year
96 Miles From Bethlehem, Belly, SALXCO*Universal
Luke’s View, Classified, Independent
The Flower That Knew DijahSB, Lowly
See You When I See You…, Dom Vallie, Awesome*The Orchard
RED FUTURE, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Sony
Traditional R&B/soul recording of the year
“Limbo,” Aqyila, Sony
“The Worst,” Benita, Independent*Believe
“Cyan Blue,” Charlotte Day Wilson, Independent*The Orchard
“Halfway Broken,” Luna Elle, Hot Freestyle*Independent
“VELVET SOUL,” THEHONESTGUY, Independent*Believe
Contemporary R&B recording of the year
“Bloom,” Aqyila, Sony
“Noire,” Avenoir, Independent*LISTEN TO THE KIDS
“FOR THE BOY IN ME,” Dylan Sinclair ,Five Stone*The Orchard
“LOONY, LOONY,” Independent*AWAL
“Eastend Confessions,” Zeina, Artist Partner Group
Reggae recording of the year
“Born to Be Free,” Exco Levi, Independent
“FALLBACK,” King Cruff & Runkus, Tuff Gong*Universal
“Destiny,” Lee “Scratch” Perry & Bob Riddim, Independent
“Sky’s the Limit,” Skystar, Independent
“Rise,” Tonya P, Independent
Children’s album of the year
Shun Beh Nats’ujeh: We Are Healing Through Songs, Kym Gouchie, Independent
Penny Penguin, Raffi & Good Lovelies, Independent*Universal
Riley Rocket: Songs From Season One, Riley Rocket and Megablast, Independent
Buon Appetito, Walk off the Earth & Romeo Eats, Golden Carrot*The Orchard
Maestro Fresh Wes Presents: Young Maestro “Rhyme Travellers”, Young Maestro, Independent
Comedy album of the year
Wonder Woman, Courtney Gilmour, Comedy Records*Downtown
Honourable Intentions, Debra DiGiovanni, Independent
Popcorn, Ivan Decker, Independent
Sad Witch, Jess Salomon, Independent
Down With Tech, Nathan Macintosh, Comedy Records*Downtown
Traditional indigenous artist or group of the year
New Comings, Black Bear Singers, Independent
Winston & I, Brianna Lizotte, Independent
Travelling Home, Cree Confederation, Independent
REZilience, Northern Cree, Independent
Ostesihtowin-“Brotherhood”, Young Spirit, Independent
Contemporary indigenous artist or group of the year
Precious Diamonds, Adrian Sutherland, Independent
Boundless Possibilities, Celeigh Cardinal, Independent
Brown Man, Sebastian Gaskin, Ishkōdé*Universal
RED FUTURE, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Sony
Pretty Red Bird, Tia Wood, Sony
Album Francophone De L’année
Aliocha Schneider, Aliocha Schneider, Les Disques Audiogramme*Sony/The Orchard
Demain il fera beau, Fredz, La Taniere*Believe
Toutes les rues sont silencieuses, Jay Scøtt, Disques 7ième Ciel*Believe
Abracadabra, Klô Pelgag, Secret City*F.A.B.
Pub Royal, Les Cowboys Fringants, Les Disques de La Tribu*Propagande/Believe
Contemporary Christian/gospel album of the year
elenee., Elenee, Independent
My Foundation, Jordan St. Cyr, Independent*The Orchard
Restore, Ryan Ofei, Independent*Platoon/Believe
Miracle in the Making, Tehillah Worship, Independent
Hymns Alive (Live), Toronto Mass Choir, Independent*Believe
Global music album of the year
Aarambh, Abby V, Sufiscore
Kanzafula, Ahmed Moneka, Lulaworld*Independent
Malak, Didon, Electrofone*Independent
Dankoroba, Djely Tapa, Independent*Believe
Niebla, Ramon Chicharron, Independent*Believe
South Asian music recording of the year
“The Brownprint,” AP Dhillon, Republic *Universal
“COOLIN,” Chani Nattan, Inderpal Moga & Jazzy B, Warner
“Love Like That,” Jonita Gandhi, Warner
“Tauba Tauba (From Bad Newz),” Karan Aujla, T-Series
“Arul,” Yanchan, Produced & Sandeep Narayan, Independent
Album artwork of the year
Erik M. Grice (Art Director), Vanessa Elizabeth Heins (Photographer); Chandler – Wyatt C. Louis, Independent*Universal
Gabriel Noel Altrows (Art Director/Illustrator); Good Kid 4 – Good Kid, Independent/The Orchard
Kee Avil, Jacqueline Beaumont (Art Director), Fatine-Violette Sabiri (Photographer); Spine – Kee Avil Constellation*Secretly Canadian
Keenan Gregory (Art Director); Altruistic – Royal Tusk MNRK
Kevin Hearn, Lauchlan Reid (Art Director), Antoine Jean Moonen (Designer), Lauchlan Reid (Illustrator); Basement Days – The Glacials Celery*IDLA
Music video of the year
“Human,” Adrian Villagomez, Apashe & Wasiu, Kannibalen*Create
“Nasty,” Jonah Haber, Tinashe, Independent
“GRAVITY,” Jorden Lee, Sean Leon, Independent
“Name of God,” Mustafa, Mustafa, Arts & Crafts*Universal
“Jump Cut,” Winston Hacking, Corridor, Bonsound*Sony/The Orchard
Classical composition of the year
“Angmalukisaa,” Deantha Edmunds, Independent*Leaf/Naxos
“the fog in our poise,” Gabriel Dharmoo, Centrediscs*Canadian Music Centre/Naxos
“L’écoute du perdu : III. « Voix jetées »,” Keiko Devaux, ATMA*Universal
“Dark Flowe,” Linda Catlin Smith, Redshift*Independent
“String Quartet No. 4 ‘Insects and Machines,’” Vivian Fung, Independent
This story was originally published by Billboard Canada.