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Ariana Grande Named Songwriter of the Year
“We Can’t Be Friends” Named Song of the Year
Universal Music Group Publishing Named Publisher of the Year
(Los Angeles, Calif. – September 18, 2025) SESAC celebrated its songwriters and music publishers behind the most-performed songs of 2024 across a variety of genres at the W Hotel in Hollywood last night, September 17, marking the fourth year the awards took place in Los Angeles.
Global superstar Ariana Grande was named Songwriter of the Year. Additionally, the popstar was awarded Song of the Year for her smash hit “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait For Your Love)” which became Ariana’s seventh song to debut at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, earning her the record for female artist with the most number-one debuts in history.
The song was published by the recipient of the Publisher of the Year award, Universal Music Group Publishing. The company was also behind multiple award-winning songs from the evening including “The Emptiness Machine” recorded by Linkin Park and “We Pray” recorded by Coldplay ft. Little Simz, Burna Boy, Elyanna and TINI.
Dez Wright and The Legendary Traxster were each honored with Producer of the Year awards, in recognition of their successes as prolific producers, working with major artists including Travis Scott, Future, Beyoncé, Megan thee Stallion, and more. Additional award-winning writers include Jack Harlow, Emily Armstrong, Dahi, Japanese Breakfast, Green Day, Fede Vindver, Sam Tinnesz, and more.
“We’re proud to honor the incredible songwriters and publishers who make our music come alive,” shared Sam Kling, Chief Creative Officer, SESAC Performing Rights. “These songs are the result of immense dedication and talent, and we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on the amazing contributions of our SESAC family.”
Kling announced that two members of the creative team, James Leach and John Sweeney, received posthumous Legacy Awards in recognition of the service and dedication they provided not only to their work at SESAC and the songwriters they represented, but to moving the industry forward.
On hand to celebrate were Kling, President & COO Scott Jungmichel, as well as SVP, Head of LA Creative Mario Prins and VP, Creative Services Diana Akin Scarfo. Artist and SESAC songwriter Tamara Jade, whose latest single “Werq” was released in July, served as the MC for the evening for the third consecutive year.
For event highlights, visit @SESAC on Instagram. A full list of winners is available at www.sesac.com
