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With a keen eye for spotting talent and a natural instinct for writing and producing hit songs, Jermaine "JD" Dupri has always strived to reach new heights in the world of music. His climb has been an exciting uphill journey, and ASCAP is pleased to honor Jermaine Dupri with the Rhythm and Soul Songwriter of the Year Award this year for penning the most winning songs: "Burn," "Confessions Part II," "My Boo" and "U Should've Known Better."
His recent high-profile projects have commanded the attention of the public and the industry alike. In addition to co-writing and producing four key tracks on Mariah Carey's #1 release, The Emancipation of Mimi, including her 16th #1 hit single, "We Belong Together," Dupri earned four Grammy nominations for his work on Usher's Confessions. Dupri is also the first producer ever to reach #1 simultaneously on Billboard's pop, R&B and rap singles charts with three different records. Last year he held five prominent chart positions concurrently for songs he wrote and produced - multiple Usher tracks and Monica's hit single, "U Should've Known Better."
Dupri has a knack for tapping into the public consciousness while mixing in his own blend of influences to create music that feels modern, yet is grounded in history. As a songwriter, he has drawn from the likes of Quincy Jones, The Brothers Johnson, The Commodores, Marvin Gaye, Teddy Riley, Siedah Garrett, Lionel Richie, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. He even cites country music as an inspiration to his songs like Usher's "Burn." As a result, the music that he writes and produces crosses boundaries and defies expectations, helping R&B, rap and hip-hop enter the arena of mainstream pop music.
His production roster reads like a listing of some of today's biggest artists, including Janet Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Jay-Z, Elton John, Notorious B.I.G., Destiny's Child and Jessica Simpson. His popularity is the result of a successful formula: carefully putting his signature production stamp on songs while preserving each artist's distinctive personality and vibe. This expertise comes after years of work. Dupri produced his first record at age 12 and founded his own record label, So So Def, in his hometown of Atlanta at 19, leaping into the top of the charts with the breakout multi-platinum rap duo, Kris Kross. Today, Dupri strengthened his position as a rising music executive when he assumed the title of President of Virgin Records, Urban Music, a new label division that includes So So Def and allows for an expansive role with the potential of producing select urban artists for the entire label.
Recently recognized with the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award at the ASCAP Pop Music Awards this year, Dupri has steadily attained a level of success that will surely carry him even further in his career. We are proud to honor him this evening with the ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Songwriter of the Year Award, and look forward to celebrating many more hits from this stellar songwriter, producer and executive.
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