March 12, 2025: Legendary composer Stephen Schwartz, known for his iconic works in musicals such as Wicked, Godspell, and Pippin, is set to be honored with the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award at the Songwriters Hall of Fame (SHOF) Induction and Awards Gala on June 12. The event will take place at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.
The Johnny Mercer Award is the highest honor given by the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and it is reserved for a songwriter or songwriting team whose body of work maintains the gold standard of excellence set by the legendary Johnny Mercer. This award is a significant acknowledgment of an artist’s enduring impact and contributions to the music industry. Schwartz, who was first inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009, will receive this honor in recognition of his remarkable career and musical legacy.
SHOF Chairman Nile Rodgers praised Schwartz’s talent, calling him a master at turning a simple story into a Broadway masterpiece. “From Godspell to Wicked and Pippin, Stephen continually proves that he is the only person who can turn a simple story into a Broadway musical masterpiece, one catchy chorus at a time,” Rodgers said.
Schwartz’s illustrious career spans beyond the Broadway stage; he also co-wrote memorable songs for Disney’s Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Enchanted, as well as DreamWorks’ The Prince of Egypt. His musical The Queen of Versailles is set to open on Broadway this fall, starring Kristin Chenoweth.
Schwartz is also currently working on Wicked: Part Two, which is scheduled for release in theaters this fall.
Past recipients of the Johnny Mercer Award include songwriting legends such as Diane Warren, Tim Rice, Paul Williams, Carole Bayer Sager, Neil Diamond, and Elton John, among many others.