JD, OG Parker, 21 Savage, Offset, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Munson Steed Bring Home Major Honors
The 2025 ASCAP Awards, a prestigious event in the music industry, saw Atlanta artists making a significant mark.
Atlanta’s music scene was well-represented at the 2025 ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Celebration. Notable artists such as Jermaine Dupri, OG Parker, 21 Savage, Offset, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, and Munson Steed, each with their unique contributions to the industry, brought home major honors.
Atlanta’s influence on music culture was not just recognized but celebrated at the 2025 ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Celebration, held on June 8 in Beverly Hills, California. The city’s top-tier talent, with their music resonating globally, took home some of the night’s most prestigious honors, further cementing Atlanta’s legacy as a global music powerhouse.
Jermaine “JD” Dupri added another accolade to his iconic career, receiving the 2025 ASCAP Pop Music Award for “Made for Me,” the soulful breakout hit performed by Muni Long. The track, which blends R&B and pop sensibilities, not only soared up the charts but also struck a deep emotional chord with listeners worldwide, showcasing JD’s ability to connect across generations and genres.
Joshua “OG” Parker, another standout from Atlanta, continued his meteoric rise with multiple recognitions tied to his impressive catalog. Known for his signature sound that fuses melodic textures with streetwise energy, OG Parker’s contributions to some of today’s biggest records reflect Atlanta’s evolving musical landscape and its continued innovation in hip-hop and R&B production.
Hip-hop heavyweight 21 Savage walked away with honors for his work on “Prove It,” “Redrum,” and the chart-climbing “Surround Sound.” These hits have not only ruled streaming platforms but also resonated deeply within the culture, blending gritty lyricism with atmospheric beats that mirror the complexity of today’s urban narratives. Each track highlights Savage’s ability to evolve while staying true to his Atlanta roots.
Offset, known for his charisma and trailblazing sound, was honored for “Worth It,” a track that reflects both his lyrical growth and commercial success as a solo artist. Offset’s continued dominance is a testament to his adaptability and relentless work ethic in an ever-changing music industry.
In the gospel world, Tasha Cobbs Leonard was recognized for “In the Room,” a soul-stirring anthem that has inspired listeners and uplifted spirits worldwide. Her powerful voice and heartfelt message reflect Atlanta’s rich tradition in gospel music and its enduring influence on faith-based artistry.
A significant moment of the evening came when Munson W. Steed and co-writer Christopher “Xavier Wright” Gales received the ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Award for Most Performed Gospel Song for “Look at God” as performed by Koryn Hawthorne. The song’s stirring vocals and triumphant message have become a staple in worship spaces, showcasing the vital role Atlanta creatives continue to play in the gospel music space.
The awards ceremony also spotlighted the broader industry impact of these artists. Jonathan “JJ” Jones, Vice President of Creative, R&B, and Soul at ASCAP, along with Nicole George-Middleton, ASCAP’s Executive Vice President and Head of Creative Membership, were in attendance to celebrate the talent, including Steed and Wright, whose song resonated deeply with audiences nationwide.
Beyond Atlanta, the night featured historic wins for other major players in the industry. Kendrick Lamar’s chart-dominating “Not Like Us,” co-written with Mustard, won both R&B/Hip-Hop and Rap Song of the Year, making history as the first rap single to remain on the Billboard Hot 100 for 52 consecutive weeks. Cardi B took home the ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award, as well as an additional honor for “Enough (Miami),” celebrating her role as both a hitmaker and a cultural icon.
Meanwhile, OZ, the Swiss-born producer and songwriter, was named ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Songwriter of the Year for hits like “First Person Shooter” (Drake), “Lovin On Me” (Jack Harlow), and “I KNOW ?” (Travis Scott). Gospel Song of the Year went to “That’s My King” by CeCe Winans, rounding out a night filled with emotion, excellence, and high-energy performances.
SONY Music Publishing claimed the title of ASCAP Publisher of the Year, with a catalog boasting some of the most streamed and performed songs of the year, including “Texas Hold’ Em” (Beyoncé), “Saturn” (SZA), and “Get It Sexyy” (Sexyy Red).
Still, it was Atlanta’s moment to shine. From gospel to hip-hop, pop to R&B, the city’s creators not only took home awards but reminded the industry of their cultural impact and creative force. As music continues to evolve, Atlanta remains at the heart of the sound—and soul—of modern music.
