Paul Anka to Receive Prestigious BMI Icon Award

The pop music legend will be honored at the 2026 BMI Pop Awards ceremony in Beverly Hills.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:37pm

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An abstract close-up photograph of sparkling gold sequins and shattered disco ball glass, capturing the glitz and glamour of the music industry awards show.The BMI Pop Awards ceremony will honor Paul Anka's legendary career with the prestigious Icon Award, celebrating his enduring impact on popular music.Beverly Hills Today

Paul Anka, the iconic Canadian pop singer-songwriter, is set to receive the prestigious BMI Icon Award at the 2026 BMI Pop Awards ceremony on May 12 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Anka's illustrious career began in 1957 when he released his global hit 'Diana' at the age of 16, and he has since amassed a remarkable catalog of chart-topping singles and albums over the past seven decades.

Why it matters

The BMI Icon Award is one of the music industry's highest honors, recognizing artists who have made exceptional contributions to popular music. Anka's selection underscores his enduring impact as a songwriter, performer, and cultural icon whose music has resonated with audiences for generations. The award ceremony will celebrate Anka's remarkable longevity and creative influence in the pop music landscape.

The details

Throughout his unparalleled career, Anka has recorded over 120 albums in multiple languages and landed 48 songs on the Billboard Hot 100, including 10 that reached the top 10. He is renowned for penning timeless hits such as 'Lonely Boy,' '(You're) Having My Baby,' 'Put Your Head on My Shoulder,' and 'Times of Your Life.' Anka also wrote the English lyrics for Frank Sinatra's signature song 'My Way' and composed the theme song for The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.

  • Paul Anka's music career began in 1957 when he released his first hit single 'Diana' at the age of 16.
  • Anka will receive the BMI Icon Award at the 2026 BMI Pop Awards ceremony on May 12 in Beverly Hills, California.

The players

Paul Anka

A Canadian pop singer-songwriter whose illustrious career spans over seven decades, with numerous hit songs and albums to his name. He is considered a true icon in the music industry.

Barbara Cane

BMI's vice president of worldwide creative, who praised Anka's timeless artistry and impact on popular music in a statement announcing his BMI Icon Award.

Mike O'Neill

The CEO of BMI, who will be hosting the private BMI Pop Awards ceremony alongside other BMI executives.

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What they’re saying

“Throughout an unparalleled and distinguished career, Paul Anka has captured timelessness, writing himself into the soundtrack of popular music where greatness isn't just a moment, but a lifelong crescendo.”

— Barbara Cane, BMI's VP, Worldwide Creative

“Paul's words, melodies and artistry transcend decades and eras, and we're thrilled to honor him as a BMI Icon. We're also excited to celebrate and recognize the undeniable talent of all BMI's brilliant, award-winning songwriters and publishers that we're privileged to represent. It's going to be an evening to remember.”

— Barbara Cane, BMI's VP, Worldwide Creative

What’s next

The 2026 BMI Pop Awards ceremony, where Paul Anka will receive the prestigious BMI Icon Award, is scheduled to take place on May 12 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California.

The takeaway

Paul Anka's selection as the 2026 BMI Icon Award recipient underscores his enduring impact as a legendary singer-songwriter whose timeless music has resonated with audiences for generations. The upcoming ceremony will celebrate Anka's remarkable career achievements and his lasting influence on the pop music landscape.