🎶 Janis Ian, Brenda Russell, Vicki Peterson & More to Be Honored by Women Songwriters Hall of Fame

The Women Songwriters Hall of Fame (WSHOF) is set to celebrate its 5th annual induction ceremony on June 21, 2025, at Washington D.C.’s historic Arena Stage. This year’s honorees include legendary songwriters Janis Ian, Brenda Russell, Vicki Peterson, alongside other trailblazers such as Asha Puthli, Christina Shusho, Janiva Magness, and the late Sylvia Moy

📅 Ceremony Details

• Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 4:30 PM

• Venue: Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, D.C.

• Host: TV personality and entrepreneur Claudia Jordan, with performances and presentation by artists like Evelyn Rubio, DJ Supreme Da Barber, and comedic-magician Adam Stone

✨ Spotlight on the Honorees

Janis Ian

• Iconic singer-songwriter known for “Society’s Child” and “At Seventeen”

• Civil rights, LGBTQ+ activism, and co-founder of the Pearl Foundation, awarding over $1.27 million in scholarships Recently released archival projects and an upcoming PBS “American Masters” documentary slated for the 2025 season

Brenda Russell

• Renowned for her rich catalog blending R&B, pop, and jazz—her hits include “Piano in the Dark” and contributions to Natalie Cole, Earth, Wind & Fire

Vicki Peterson

• As a founding member of The Bangles, she co-wrote and performed empowering songs like “Manic Monday” and “Walk Like an Egyptian” Sylvia Moy, Asha Puthli, Christina Shusho, Janiva Magness

• Esteemed songwriters and performers whose diverse, influential bodies of work span Motown, jazz fusion, gospel, and blues

🌟 Why This Year Is Special

• Milestone moment: It’s the WSHOF’s 5th anniversary, celebrating a growing legacy that began in 2021 .

• Elevating women’s voices: The organization not only honors icons but also empowers future artists via workshops, scholarships, and networking events .

• Rich programming: Alongside inductions, the gala includes a songwriting contest, emerging artist showcases, and live performances—creating a dynamic forum for songwriting excellence

🎤 What to Expect at the Gala

• Hosts & performances: Claudia Jordan leads the evening, with contributions from DJ Supreme Da Barber, Evelyn Rubio, and Women On Fire Ministries

• Emerging artist spotlight: A pre-gala mixer and contest give new songwriters a shot at studio time and stage time—highlighting WSHOF’s mission to nurture the next generation .

• Celebratory atmosphere: This multi-genre celebration honors women whose work has defined pop, R&B, rock, jazz, gospel, country, and beyond.

🎯 Final Take

This year’s WSHOF inductees—Janis Ian, Brenda Russell, Vicki Peterson, and peers—represent decades of songwriting excellence and cultural influence. The June 21 gala at Arena Stage isn’t just an awards show; it’s a platform for celebration, mentorship, and female empowerment in songwriting. Mark your calendars: this is a momentous gathering you won’t want to miss.

If you’d like details on watching livestreams, ticket sales, or insights on their iconic songs, just say the word!