ASCAP'S MATTHEWS IS THE WARRIOR

ASCAP CEO Elizabeth Matthews was feted by ASCAP Chairman/President Paul Williams and songwriting-production titans Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis on 10/29 at the annual Songwriters of North America Warrior Awards in Los Angeles. Matthews, Jam and Lewis are seen here with songwriter Mozella (second from left), who co-penned Miley Cyrus’ "Wrecking Ball" and the Kelly Clarkson club hit "Love So Soft," to name but two, and apparently didn’t get the memo about all-black attire.

"I know that songwriters are the true musical warriors—unbelievably brave and strong in the face of uncertainty every day as new technology challenges their livelihoods," said Matthews, who was also the subject of video tributes from Sony Music Publishing Chairman/CEO Jon Platt, Ne-Yo, Desmond Child and composer Stephen Schwartz.

"I want everyone to know what I know and see what I see—that Elizabeth is the ultimate warrior for creators," added SONA founder/Executive Director Michelle Lewis, who's pictured below flanked by Williams and Matthews and who will be going as the Phantom of the Paradise for Halloween.

As part of the ceremony hosted by songwriters Bonnie McKee and Shane Stevens, SONA also gave awards to Justin Tranter for his advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQ+ community, Rissi Palmer for her "talent, resilience and leadership" and the late Allee Willis, who co-wrote Earth, Wind & Fire’s "September" and shares credit on the Friends theme, "I’ll Be There for You."

Patty Smyth could not be reached for comment.