MUMBAI: Grammy Award-winning American rappers and producers, Timbaland and Jay-Z, were both honoured as the songwriters and publishers of the most performed ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) songs on the 2014 R&B, hip-hop, rap and gospel charts. The two rappers were presented with the award at the 28th annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards on Thursday, 25 June in Los Angeles.

Fellow Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Lauryn Hill was presented with the ASCAP Golden Note Award. This award is among the most prestigious honours that ASCAP gives to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Previous recipients of the award include Pharrell Williams, Dr. Dre, Alicia Keys, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, Reba McEntire, LL Cool J, Jay Z, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Kenny Rogers, Elton John and many more.

The Publisher of the Year Award went to Sony/ATV Tunes LLC, while Timbaland, Beyoncé and Jay Z received the award for Top R&B/Hip-Hop Song for ‘Drunk in Love.’ Kid Ink and co-writer Jeremih walked away with the Top Rap Song for the track ‘Show Me’ featuring Chris Brown; while Bart Millard was honoured with the award for Top Gospel Song for ‘I Can Only Imagine’.

Performances at the award ceremony included indie artist D.R.A.M. showcasing his new track, ‘Cha Cha’, American recording artist Jazmine Sullivan performed her ballad ‘Forever Don’t Last’ and hip hop group Migos performed their popular track ‘Handsome and Wealthy’ and gospel singer Smokie Norful performed his hit song, ‘No Greater Love’.