Broadcast Music Inc. announced Wednesday that Grammy Award-winning rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur Nas will receive the BMI Icon Award during the 2026 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards on Aug. 26 in Los Angeles.
The private ceremony will recognize Nas for his songwriting career and his influence on hip-hop and popular culture. The event will be hosted by BMI CEO Mike O’Neill, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue & Creative Officer Mike Steinberg, and Vice President of Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.
In addition to honoring Nas, BMI will recognize the songwriters, producers, and music publishers behind the 35 most-performed R&B and hip-hop songs from the past year drawn from BMI’s catalog of more than 25 million musical works. The organization also will present its Songwriter, Song, Producer, and Publisher of the Year awards, along with Top Producers honors.
“Nas has both defined and elevated hip-hop through his groundbreaking storytelling, lyrical excellence, and a lasting commitment to artistic innovation,” Brewton said in a statement. “From his earliest works to the music mogul that he is today, Nas is a true icon whose legacy continues to inspire artists, influence culture, and shape the sound of hip-hop for generations.”
She added: “We are also looking forward to honoring all this year’s award-winning songwriters, producers, and publishers. It’s going to be a night to remember.”
Nas, whose career spans more than three decades, is widely regarded as one of hip-hop’s most influential lyricists. His work has earned critical acclaim, commercial success, and recognition across the music industry, while his ventures in business and technology have expanded his reach beyond music.
