The performing rights organization SESAC has presented “Even Though I’m Leaving” with its annual Song of the Year award, while Matt McGinn has been named Songwriter of the Year. In adddition, SMACKWORKS MUSIC was named Publisher of the Year. SESAC’s 2020 Nashville Music Awards were presented in a digital format this year.
“Even Though I’m Leaving” was written by Luke Combs (who recorded it), Wyatt Durrette III, and Ray Fulcher. Durrette, who is affiliated with SESAC, wrote on Instagram: “Humbled to get the chance to give, through song. Grateful be a part of a song that truly moved people šš½.”
Matt McGinn was named SESACās Songwriter of the Year for the second time, taking home his first award in 2018. McGinnās chart-topping hits from the past year include āHomesickā and āCool Againā recorded by Kane Brown and āOne Thing Rightā recorded by Kane Brown and Marshmello.
On an Instagram post, McGinn wrote in part: “This year sucks times a billion and it feels weird to celebrate anything with so many people struggling, so thank you Sesac for giving me something to smile about. Hope to get to see everyone and drink some drinks together at the awards next year š»”
āWe are very excited to once again recognize our talented songwriter and publishing partners with the annual Nashville Music Awards,ā said Kelli Turner, President and COO, SESAC Rights Management. āAlthough we canāt be together in person, we are deeply honored to celebrate the creative achievements of our affiliates in a new way. Not only are we grateful for their craft of songwriting, we value their work and its connection to the human experience, which ultimately lifts our spirits.ā
āWe couldnāt be more proud of SESACās songwriters. Their commitment to writing and bringing us a sense of hopeādespite the real struggles that weāve all recently facedāhas not gone unnoticed,ā added Sam Kling, SVP of Creative Operations. āI also need to commend both Lydia Schultz and ET Brown for their relentless dedication to SESACās Country and Americana affiliates during this time.ā