Clint Black is the latest recipient of the BMI Icon Award. The award is given is given to an artist who has been influential as a songwriter. Black joins the ranks of songwriters like Bill Anderson, Loretta Lynn, Vince Gill, Toby Keith, and more, in receiving the prestigious honor.
As part of the ceremony honoring Black, Midland, Jamey Johnson, Wynonna Judd, Randy House, and Riley Green performed in tribute to Black
“I do have to say, being the Icon, getting this award tonight, I expect I’ll be treated a whole lot differently at home now,” Black joked from stage. “Can you imagine? Things are gonna change around the house.”
All kidding aside, Black acknowledged that he has had plenty of help in his career, encouraging rising singer-songwriters to also give credit to those who are helping make their dreams come true.
“You don’t do what we do, without a long train of people behind you, pushing you up the hill,” the 63-year-old says. “There’s been a lot of people in my life who are as much responsible for this moment as I am. Those of you who are younger, when you’re standing up here one day, I hope you will think about how many people along the way pushed and pushed and pushed.”
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What Clint Black Said About Receiving the BMI Icon Award
Black has written hits like “A Better Man,” “Killin’ Time,” “When My Ship Comes In,” “Like the Rain,” and more. To be recognized for his songwriting is an honor he admits he never expected.
“It did make me emotional,” Black told People. “And I could feel the gravity or the levity of it, whichever way you want to characterize it. It was a special moment to be told by them, for them to take the time.”
Black is thrilled to be recognized, but maintains that awards and accolades have nothing to do with why he keeps making music.
“I’ve spent my career trying to just be down here on earth and not where someone else wants to put me, whether it’s fans or award shows,” Black says. “Not to say I don’t appreciate the honors, I just have to guard against thinking too much of myself.”
Black’s debut Killin’ Time record came out in 1989. 36 years later, Black is still touring and making music, with no plans of slowing down.
“I’m still playing 80 cities a year, roughly, and I still practice just almost constantly,” Black says. “I’m still improving. I haven’t seen any decline; I’ve just seen improvements.”
“I’m still striving to become the musician I think I can be,” he adds. “And so that requires putting it to the test, getting up on stage, trying to pull off these challenges I’ve created for myself as a musician, as a singer.”
Photo Credit: Getty for BMI