Paul Anka to Receive Icon Award at 2026 BMI Pop Awards

The legendary singer-songwriter will be honored at the prestigious music ceremony in May.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 5:22am

An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering gold sequins reflecting dramatic studio lighting, conceptually representing the glamour and prestige of a major music industry awards show.The glittering gold sequins of the BMI Pop Awards stage will shine brightly as legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka is honored with the prestigious Icon Award.Beverly Hills Today

Paul Anka, the iconic Canadian singer-songwriter known for hits like "Diana" and "Put Your Head on My Shoulder," is set to receive the prestigious Icon Award at the 2026 BMI Pop Awards ceremony in Beverly Hills, California on May 12th. BMI President Barbara Cane praised Anka's enduring impact on popular music, saying his work has "captured timelessness" and written itself "into the soundtrack of popular music."

Why it matters

The BMI Pop Awards are one of the music industry's top honors, recognizing songwriters and composers who have made significant contributions to contemporary music. Anka's Icon Award cements his status as a true legend whose songs have resonated with audiences for decades, making him one of the most influential and revered figures in pop music history.

The details

The 2026 BMI Pop Awards ceremony will take place on May 12th in Beverly Hills, California. Anka, now 85 years old, will be recognized for his unparalleled career as a singer, songwriter, and performer. Some of his most iconic hits include "Diana," "Put Your Head on My Shoulder," and "(You're) Having My Baby." BMI President Barbara Cane praised Anka's ability to create music that has "captured timelessness" and become "a lifelong crescendo" in the fabric of popular culture.

  • The 2026 BMI Pop Awards ceremony will take place on May 12, 2026.
  • Paul Anka will receive the Icon Award at the ceremony.

The players

Paul Anka

A legendary Canadian singer-songwriter known for hit songs like "Diana" and "Put Your Head on My Shoulder." Anka has had an unparalleled and distinguished career spanning over six decades in the music industry.

Barbara Cane

The President of BMI, the music rights management company that organizes the annual BMI Pop Awards ceremony where Anka will be honored.

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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, President, BMI

The takeaway

Paul Anka's Icon Award at the 2026 BMI Pop Awards is a testament to his enduring impact and influence on popular music over the past six decades. As one of the most revered singer-songwriters of his generation, Anka's timeless hits have become ingrained in the cultural fabric, cementing his status as a true music legend.