JOHN LEGEND, DOLLY PARTON, JACKSON BROWNE SONGWRITERS HALL

John Legend, Jackson Browne, Dolly Parton, Don Kirchner all entered into the Songwriting Hall Of Fame on Thursday night.

The Songwriters Hall Of Fame took place Thursday night in New York City at the Marriott Marquis, and getting awards were Dolly Parton, John Legend, Jackson Browne and Don Kirschner among others.

Legend was inducted in by Kanye West, who took time away from his birthday celebration to present him with the Hal David Starlight Award. Legend talked about the Songwriters Hall Of Fame honor and being inducted by Kanye.

Inductee Jackson Browne was presented in by Marc Cohn, and he performed the socio-politically charged song “Lives In The Balance.” We asked him if it was disturbing that the song, which was written twenty years ago still rings true today.

Don Kirshner, music publisher was known as “Mr. Music” and “the man with the golden ear” for his ability to spot and break talent. He talked to us about finally being recognized for his achievements; one of which was Neil Sedaka who presented him into the Hall and who has a career retrospective on the way.

Also honored were Hy Zaret and Alex North, the writers for the song “Unchained Melody,” Irving Burgie, Don Black, and Michael Masser. Attending were presenters Marc Cohn, Sean Garrett, and special audience members including Joss Stone.