Jay Z Becomes First Rapper Ever Inducted Into the Songwriters Hall of Fame

Back in October, the Songwriters Hall of Fame announced their 2017 nominees. Along with legendary pop hitmakers like Berry Gordy and Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Jay Z became the first rapper ever to be nominated for the hall and now it appears he’ll be inducted. On Wednesday morning, the 2017 Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees were announced, and they have now confirmed that Jay Z has become the first rapper to ever receive the honor. Said SHOF co-chairs Kenneth Gamble, Leon Huff and President Linda Moran:

With our 2017 roster of inductees, the Songwriters Hall of Fame moves definitively into recognizing music creators of the 21st century while continuing to honor the greats of earlier decades. The combination of contemporary sounds and timeless hits of the past is certain to make for an unforgettable evening. The songwriters we honor cross genres, regional and even national boundaries – R & B, Rap, Pop and Rock & Roll from both coasts, the American heartland and Sweden. We are thrilled to once more have the opportunity to preside over an event that recognizes the convergence of song craft and musical performance at the very highest level.

The hip-hop mogul joins Max Martin, Robert Lamm, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, James Pankow & Peter Cetera, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Chicago for this year’s inductees. Meanwhile, the Songwriters Hall of Fame ceremony takes place in New York City on June 15.