Overview

• The 2025 class recognized funk pioneer George Clinton, country hitmaker Ashley Gorley, Beach Boys co-founder Mike Love, British songwriter Tony Macaulay, hit producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins and Doobie Brothers members Tom Johnston, Michael McDonald and Patrick Simmons.
• Living Colour opened the ceremony with a dynamic cover of Funkadelic’s “Cosmic Slop” as a nod to Clinton’s enduring influence on funk and beyond.
• Hall of Fame chairman Nile Rodgers described induction as the highest honor for songwriters whose work touches millions of listeners.
• The event further showcased performances by Dan + Shay and Debbie Gibson to highlight country and pop songwriting talents.
• Special honors included the Johnny Mercer Award for composer Stephen Schwartz and the Hal David Starlight Award for singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams.