Songs of the Century

RIAA, NEA Announce ‘Songs of the Century’

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) recently announced a project titled ‘Songs of the Century’. The project seeks to promote increased understanding of America’s musical and cultural heritage in schools around U.S.A.

The project curriculum will be distributed to schools all across the US in order to aid appreciation of all aspects of music creation, such as songwriting, musicianship, recording, performing, producing, distributing and the development of cultural values.

The RIAA press release describes the process through which ‘Songs of the Century’ were selected: ‘Official ‘Songs of the Century’ ballots were sent out to music lovers across the country. The hundreds of voters came from all walks of life including local, state and federal elected officials, the music industry, teachers, members of the media and students. Participants were asked to keep in mind the historical significance of not only the song, but also of the record and artist. Voters identified 365 key recordings. The songs were chosen from a master list of over 1,100 recordings of historical significance. More than 40 reference volumes, several popular music experts and award-winning lists from the RIAA, National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS), Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI), American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), National Association Of Recording Merchandisers (NARM) and other organisations were used in the process. Voters were also able to write-in entries.”

Three songs with contributions by Michael are featured in the list which is divided by era:

THE ROCK ERA (1970-1980): ‘I Want You Back’ by The Jackson 5, 1969

THE ‘EIGHTIES (1980-1990): ‘Beat It’ by Michael Jackson, 1983 ‘We Are The World’ by ‘USA for Africa’ (co-written by Michael Jackson with Lionel Richie)

Source: RIAA