Burt Bacharach was an American composer, songwriter, record producer, and pianist who is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures of 20th-century popular music.

He had received three Academy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, six Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, a BAFTA Award, and a Drama Desk Award.

He was also nominated for a Tony Award.

The success of [Burt Bacharach and Hal David]'s creative genius continues today as they each add new songs to what is without question one of the richest and most recognizable multi-generational playlists known to the world.

Their creative talents have inspired songwriters for more than five decades, and their legacy is much in the tradition of George and Ira Gershwin, for whom this award is named.