Multi-platinum recording artist, songwriter and social justice activist Natalie Merchant will be recognized with the ASCAP Foundation Champion Award.
The ASCAP Foundation also announced that composer, conductor, artistic director and founder of the Young People's Chorus of New York City Francisco Núñez will be honored with the Life in Music Award at The ASCAP Foundation Honors on December 11 in New York City.
"Natalie Merchant has lent her name and voice to the causes of environmental protection, domestic violence, racism, arts education and more, and Francisco Núñez has enriched the lives of thousands of children of every cultural and economic background with innovative music education," said ASCAP Foundation President Paul Williams.
The Champion Award was established to celebrate ASCAP members whose contributions extend beyond music to significant charitable and humanitarian efforts.
Known for her solo career and as the lead vocalist and lyricist of the band 10,000 Maniacs, Merchant has supported a variety of non-profit organizations both financially and by raising public awareness.
Merchant is also set to receive the 2019 John Lennon Real Love Award at Symphony Space in New York City on December 6.
(Photo: Bryan Ledgard)
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