ASCAP Honors: EJAE, Kali Uchis & Kehlani as Music Honorees

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) is set to host its 17th annual Women Behind the Music event, honoring a stellar lineup of artists for their significant contributions to the music industry. In 2025, the prestigious recognition will be bestowed upon acclaimed artists EJAE, Kali Uchis, and Kehlani, celebrating their diverse talents and remarkable achievements. This event, scheduled for November 12 in Los Angeles, spotlights trailblazing women who continue to shape the sound and landscape of contemporary music.

ASCAP Women Behind the Music: A Legacy of Recognition

The ASCAP Women Behind the Music event is a revered annual gathering dedicated to acknowledging the profound impact of women across various facets of the music industry. From songwriters and artists to managers and executives, the event celebrates those who have broken barriers and inspired future generations. Over the years, ASCAP has honored a distinguished roster of individuals, including Coco Jones, Kandi Burruss, Kelly Rowland, Victoria Monét, and Salt-N-Pepa, among many others. Nicole George-Middleton, ASCAP Executive Vice President and Head of Creative Membership, expressed her excitement for this year’s honorees, stating, “Every year, ASCAP looks forward to spotlighting some of music’s most extraordinary women by honoring them for their achievements at our Women Behind The Music event.”

She further emphasized the significance of celebrating EJAE, Kali Uchis, and Kehlani, noting that these artists are “pushing boundaries and capturing the world’s attention across different genres.” The event will feature music provided by DJ C Devone, adding to the celebratory atmosphere as the industry gathers to applaud these deserving women.

Kehlani: A Force in R&B

Kehlani, a five-time Grammy Award-nominated singer and songwriter, stands as a prominent figure in contemporary R&B. Her career boasts over 20 gold and platinum RIAA certifications and an impressive five billion streams globally. Kehlani’s artistry is characterized by candid lyrics and a captivating vocal delivery, resonating with a vast audience. Her fourth full-length album, “Crash,” earned a Grammy nomination for Best Progressive R&B Album, while its single, “After Hours,” was nominated for Best R&B Performance, highlighting her consistent critical acclaim and commercial success.

Kali Uchis: Chart-Topping Innovation

Kali Uchis has consistently delivered critically acclaimed records, cementing her status as an innovative force in music. Her recent projects include 2023’s “Red Moon in Venus” and 2024’s “Orquídeas.” The latter made a significant impact, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. “Orquídeas” further garnered nominations for Best Latin Pop Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards and Best Pop Vocal Album at the Latin Grammys, showcasing her widespread appeal and artistic versatility across different genres. Her distinctive blend of R&B, soul, and Latin influences has cultivated a dedicated global fanbase.

EJAE: The Voice Behind the “KPop Demon Hunters” Phenomenon

EJAE is celebrated for her pivotal role as the singing voice of Rumi, the leader of Huntr/x, the popular girl group from the animated blockbuster “KPop Demon Hunters.” Beyond her vocal performance, EJAE played a crucial part in the music and overall development of the movie. Director Maggie Kang lauded her contributions, calling her the “heart and soul” of the girl group. EJAE also penned the record-breaking single “Golden,” which achieved widespread success, topping both the Billboard Hot 100 Charts and the Billboard Global 200 Chart. The track has amassed over 700 million streams on Spotify, demonstrating its immense popularity and EJAE’s profound songwriting talent.

The Impact of Honoring Women in Music

The recognition of EJAE, Kali Uchis, and Kehlani by ASCAP underscores the growing influence and indispensable contributions of women in the music industry. Such honors not only celebrate individual achievements but also inspire a new generation of female artists, songwriters, and industry professionals to pursue their passions and break new ground. By spotlighting these extraordinary talents, ASCAP reinforces its commitment to supporting and uplifting diverse voices that enrich the global music landscape.

Conclusion

The 2025 ASCAP Women Behind the Music event promises to be a memorable celebration of musical excellence and female empowerment. By honoring EJAE, Kali Uchis, and Kehlani, ASCAP acknowledges their groundbreaking work, chart-topping successes, and undeniable impact on audiences worldwide. Their stories serve as powerful testaments to the creativity, resilience, and artistry that continue to drive the evolution of music.