Garth Brooks Receives ASCAP Centennial Award

Garth Brooks has just received one of the biggest honors of his career. He was among the very exclusive recipients of ASCAP's Centennial Awards at a gala in New York City on Monday night (Nov. 17).

According to ASCAP, the performing rights society gives out the once-in-a-century awards to "a select group of American music icons in recognition of their incomparable accomplishments in their respective music genres and beyond." In addition to Brooks, this year's honorees included Joan Baez, Billy Joel, Stephen Sondheim and Stevie Wonder.

"Each of our ASCAP Centennial Award recipients is in a class of his or her own, as the creator and performer of songs that have touched the lives of people across the globe," says ASCAP Foundation President Paul Williams. "It’s wonderful to be able to salute them on the occasion of ASCAP’s centennial year and, as important, to raise funds to perpetuate the important work being done by the ASCAP Foundation."

Brooks' wife, Trisha Yearwood, was on hand to perform 'If Tomorrow Never Comes' in honor of his achievement.

"I think I was asked to present this award tonight because I have a unique perspective. You already know all the business stuff," she told the crowd (quote via Rolling Stone). "You know all the accolades, all the awards, all the numbers, all the record sales. I know the father. I know the friend. I know the partner, the best friend. I'm really proud of Garth, because he's a good man, and he's a deserving man of all good things. And I am partial because he is the love of my life and I love him because he is a good guy."

"I always wanted to kiss the guy that held the trophy," Brooks quipped in accepting his award. "I don't know what to say other than I'm humbled."

Brooks also performed, debuting a new tune titled 'I Am a Song,' which references culturally important songs including 'Over the Rainbow' and 'American Pie.'

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