The Recording Academy Statement On Frances Preston

LOS ANGELES (Top40 Charts/ Recording Academy) Recording Academy Trustees and Heroes Award recipient, and former GRAMMY Foundation Board member Frances Preston was a pioneer for female executives in the music industry.
During her six-decadelong career with BMI she fought for songwriters and publishers rights and encouraged the development and support of new artists. Her success with BMI artists in Nashville, especially in the country music genre, helped the industry recognize the talent and creativity of the city and put it on the music map. During her eight-yearlong term as President/CEO of the company, BMI saw consistent increases in revenue and royalties distributed to its composers, publishers and songwriters. She was also a staple on Capitol Hill, fighting for legislation to ensure compensation of songwriters as music entered the digital age. She served on additional boards within the music community, including BMI and CMA - and was also recognized for her philanthropic work for AIDS, Cancer and Leukemia research.
The music industry has suffered a great loss of one of its true visionaries.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family, friends and all of those whose careers she influenced.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy