Singer-songwriter John Oates will be feted for his contributions to the art of songwriting when he is honored with BMI’s Troubadour Award on Sept. 16 in Nashville.
The accolade recognizes a songwriter who has made “a profound impact on the creative community as their craft continues to set the pace for generations to follow,” according to a release from BMI. The upcoming invitation-only event will include tribute performances and commemorative speeches from special guests, in addition to a cocktail reception and dinner.
“John Oates has enriched Nashville and its music scene with his special blend of soulful storytelling and guitar playing,” BMI Nashville’s VP of Creative, Clay Bradley said in a statement. “His influence has elevated our community to be more accepting and open to all genres of music. We are proud to honor him as this year’s BMI Troubadour.”
Oates began his BMI affiliation in 1972, and he has previously been named a BMI Icon for his influence on generations of music crafters. Among his accolades are 10 BMI pop awards and 30 BMI Million-Air Awards for songs including “Maneater,” “I Can’t Go For That,” “Out of Touch” and “Sara Smile.” As a member of Hall & Oates, he has recorded 21 albums and earned six Billboard Hot 100 chart-toppers. Hall & Oates were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
Oates moved to Nashville in 2010 and embedded himself in Nashville’s Americana music community, releasing several solo projects, including 2020’s Live in Nashville and his most recent, 2024’s Reunion. He also teamed with My Morning Jacket’s Jim James to curate the Bonnaroo SuperJam in 2013 and was the creator and executive producer for the 7908 Aspen Songwriters Festival, which evolved into the national streaming charity fundraising event Oates Song Fest 7908.
Oates will join the ranks of previous BMI Troubadour Award honorees including Billy Gibbons, John Hiatt, John Prine, Robert Earl Keen and Lucinda Williams. The event honoring his BMI Troubadour Award will take place on the eve of this year’s AmericanaFest.
