Eminem, N.W.A, and Janet Jackson Lead 2025 Songwriters Hall of Fame Nominees

The Songwriters Hall of Fame has just unveiled the 26 nominees competing for the 2025 induction class, and the lineup is nothing short of iconic.

Hip-hop legends Eminem and N.W.A, alongside music giants Janet Jackson and George Clinton, are among those vying for the prestigious honor, the organization announced Tuesday. The induction, set to take place at next year’s Induction & Awards Gala in New York City, will see three songwriters from the performing category and three from the non-performing category inducted.

This year’s list boasts an impressive eight Rock and Roll Hall of Fame members, including Sheryl Crow, Janet Jackson, George Clinton, Mike Love, Steve Winwood, and influential bands like The Doobie Brothers and N.W.A. The voting window for the class of 2025 closes on December 22.

Fans will recall that last year’s honorees included legendary acts such as R.E.M., Steely Dan, and producer Timbaland, alongside songwriter greats Hillary Lindsey, Diane Warren, and the late Cindy Walker.

The Hall of Fame highlighted some key works from this year’s nominees, showcasing their immense contributions to music. Eminem’s chosen tracks include “Lose Yourself,” “Stan,” “Mockingbird,” “Houdini,” and “Rap God.” N.W.A was represented by hits like “Express Yourself,” “Dopeman,” “Fu*k Tha Police,” “Gangsta Gangsta,” and the legendary “Straight Outta Compton.” Janet Jackson’s catalog shone with “Black Cat,” “Together Again,” “Again,” “Got ‘til It’s Gone,” and the anthemic “Rhythm Nation.” George Clinton’s legacy was celebrated with classics such as “Atomic Dog,” “Flash Light,” “(Not Just) Knee Deep,” “I’d Rather Be With You,” and “Give Up The Funk (Tear the Roof off the Sucker).”

In a nostalgic nod to last year, SZA, who was awarded the Hal David Starlight Award, left an emotional mark with her acceptance speech: “Basically, receiving this award validates my entire career… Thank you for seeing me,” she said at the event, held at the New York Marriott Marquis Hotel.

With the 2025 induction just months away, the anticipation is building as music lovers and voters gear up to choose the next set of legendary songwriters to be honored.