Beach Boys co-founder Mike Love was inducted into the 2025 Songwriters Hall of Fame just a day after the tragic news of Brian Wilson’s death. Actor and devoted Beach Boys fan John Stamos introduced Love with heartfelt praise, calling him “a songwriter’s songwriter.”
In a light-hearted moment, Stamos recalled asking Love which songs he wrote, to which Love replied, “I only wrote the hits.” During his speech, Love expressed deep gratitude, especially toward Wilson, calling him “my cousin by blood and my brother in music.” The tribute became more personal when Stamos and Love performed Beach Boys hits such as “California Girls” and “Good Vibrations.”
A Night of Legendary Tributes, Cross-Genre Icons, and Celebrations of Musical Dedication
The 2025 induction ceremony was filled with memorable performances and tributes, kicking off with funk-rock band Living Colour covering Funkadelic’s “Cosmic Slop” in honor of George Clinton. The event, held at New York City’s Marriott Marquis Hotel, celebrated a diverse group of inductees, including George Clinton, The Doobie Brothers, Ashley Gorley, Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, and Tony Macaulay.
Clinton reflected on his beginnings at the iconic Brill Building and emphasized the dedication required to succeed as a songwriter. He later energized the crowd with a performance of his hit “(I Wanna) Testify.”
Mike Love Honors Brian Wilson as Songwriting Giants Unite at 2025 Hall of Fame CeremonyCountry icon Garth Brooks introduced The Doobie Brothers with high energy, performing “Long Train Runnin’” and “China Grove.” Band members Tom Johnston, Michael McDonald, and Patrick Simmons delivered their signature rock vibe with songs like “Black Water.”
Producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins received a warm introduction from Teddy Riley and shared a touching story about how his father sacrificed to support his dream. Jerkins’ children honored him with a performance of “The Boy Is Mine,” a hit he produced for Brandy and Monica, emphasizing the theme of musical legacies across generations.
Honoring Songwriting Legacies Through Family, Icons, and Emerging Voices Across Generations
Family performances were a key element of the night. Ashley Gorley, a prolific country songwriter, was honored with performances from his daughter and a medley by Dan + Shay. His hits, including Morgan Wallen’s “Last Night” and Carrie Underwood’s “All-American Girl,” highlighted his versatility.
Gorley joked that the experience felt surreal, comparing it to “crashing a royal wedding.” Meanwhile, Tony Macaulay was celebrated with a rendition of “Build Me Up Buttercup” by Debbie Gibson, bringing classic British pop into the mix. These performances underscored the intergenerational impact of great songwriting.
The ceremony also spotlighted special honorees. Stephen Schwartz, known for his work in musical theater, received the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award, with Kristin Chenoweth performing “For Good” from Wicked in his honor. Rising star Gracie Abrams was presented with the Hal David Starlight Award, recognizing emerging talents in songwriting.
Since its founding in 1969, the Songwriters Hall of Fame has celebrated musical excellence, with past inductees including legends like Carole King, Paul Simon, and Bruce Springsteen. The 2025 event continued this tradition, blending heartfelt tribute, star performances, and a celebration of the enduring power of song.