ASCAP honors Don Williams

The event will also honor the songwriters and publishers of ASCAP's most performed country songs from April 1, 2010 through March 31, 2011.

The Golden Note Award is presented to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Past recipients include Garth Brooks, Lindsey Buckingham, Sean "Diddy" Combs, Alan Jackson, Quincy Jones, Reba McEntire, JD Souther, Stevie Wonder, André Previn and Tom Petty.

ASCAP President and Chairman Paul Williams said, "Don is one of country music's most successful performers of the past four decades. His knack for finding songs that speak directly to people's hearts has earned him millions of fans worldwide. He is a true international country music star, and we are very proud to honor him with ASCAP's Golden Note Award in recognition of his extraordinary career."

Texas-born recording artist and songwriter Don Williams has enjoyed 45 Top 10 hits and 17 Number 1 singles. Williams made his initial impact as a member of the mid-1960's folk-pop trio, the Pozo-Seco Singers. Williams' self-penned hits include The Shelter of Your Eyes, Lay Down Beside Me, Love Me Over Again, and his collaboration with Wayland Holyfield, Till the Rivers All Run Dry. Williams is closely associated with songwriters Bob McDill (Amanda, It Must Be Love), Danny Flowers (Tulsa Time) and Holyfield (You're My Best Friend, Some Broken Hearts Never Mend) recording hit versions of their songs.

Williams was elected last year to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

The 49th Annual ASCAP Country Music Awards will also include the announcements of the Songwriter of the Year, Songwriter/Artist of the Year, Song of the Year and Publisher of the Year. The evening will feature performances by several award-winning songwriter/performers.