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 10:22am

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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.

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.

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 ceremony solidifies his status as a true legend in the music industry, with his iconic songs resonating with audiences for decades and cementing his place as one of the most influential and revered figures in pop music history.