January 30, 2009

By By Leila Cobo, Miami

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) will host its 17th annual El Premio ASCAP on March 3 at the Ritz Carlton in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The gala event honors the songwriters and publishers of ASCAP's most performed songs in Latin music for 2008.

This year, ASCAP will honor Venezuelan singer/songwriter Ricardo Montaner, who is also one of the Latin music's biggest pan-regional stars, with its ASCAP Latin Heritage Award for his "unique and enduring contributions to Latin music."

Also receiving special honors is Luis Fonsi, who will be presented with ASCAP's Voice of Music Award, given to songwriters and artists whose music gives voice to the spirit of a generation.

Finally, songwriter/producer Omar Alfanno will be honored with ASCAP's Golden Note Award, presented to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones.

During the awards ceremony, ASCAP will also recognize the songwriter of the year, publisher of the year and Latin song of the year and present awards in pop, tropical, regional Mexican, rock, urban and television categories.

Subscribe to Billboard magazine today!