The Songwriter of the Year award recognises a songwriter or songwriting team for their outstanding body of successful songs commercially released in the previous year. The winner will be announced on 21 September, with an awards ceremony planned to take place at the Grosvenor House, London.

It is the first time in over 20 years that Academy members have been able to vote and decide who wins an Ivor Novello Award. The nominees for Songwriter of the Year are selected by The Ivors Awards Committee and will be officially announced ahead of the vote, on Tuesday 10 August.

Chair of The Ivors Academy Crispin Hunt said:

“An Ivor Novello is the only music award bestowed by creators to honour the creative achievement of our craft. The Songwriter of the Year Award marks the pinnacle of that craft and a highlight of every Songwriter's career. Now that this award will be chosen by our Academy members makes it even more unique and special than ever.”

The award was first presented in 1970 and previous winners include Steve Mac, Ed Sheeran, Adele, Damon Albarn, Biddu, Lily Allen and Richard Ashcroft.

Academy-tier membership is for established professional songwriters and composers. Renowned members at this level include Annie Lennox, Julian Joseph OBE, Kate Bush and Paul McCartney. Find out more and apply for Academy membership before 31 July to be eligible to vote for this year’s Songwriter of the Year.