When the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers meets for their 23rd annual Rhythm & Soul Awards on June 25, the prestigious organization will honor Dr. Dre with the Founders Award. Previous winners of the Founders Award include Motown’s Berry Gordy and Garth Brooks, among others.
“Dre is one of the most important voices in modern music,” ASCAP president/chairman Paul Williams said via statement. “He created a unique, recognizable sound that dominated rap music in the early ’90s…and continues to inspire artists and producers across all genres with his musical techniques.”
The Recording Industry Association of America currently lists Dr. Dre’s The Chronic with certified sales of over 3 million copies, while Dr. Dre 2001 has tallied sales upwards of 6 million. In addition to his work as a solo artist and founding member of NWA, Dr. Dre has won five Grammy awards and produced hits for Eminem, Gwen Stefani, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, 2Pac and 50 Cent.
