WHAT WE DO AND WHY WE DO IT

The Songwriters Guild of America is keenly aware that American music has been the backbone of entertainment exports to the rest of the world, a major foundation of America's gross national product and, most importantly, a cultural touch stone of our emotions, memories and lives.

Since 1931, the SGA has fought to carry out its two-word mission: protect songwriters. That includes the music they create and their ability to earn a living for themselves and their families. The SGA does this in three ways: through its music advocacy on Capitol Hill; through services to professional and developing songwriters; and through community outreach via the Songwriters Guild of America Foundation.

MUSIC ADVOCACY

With its work on Capitol Hill and with other agencies throughout the world, the SGA is a major advocate of creators' rights. The victories enjoyed there by the SGA have benefited not just SGA songwriter members but creators worldwide.

Democratic Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (right), poses on Capitol Hill with SGA President Rick Carnes (center).

Democratic Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (right), poses with SGA President Rick Carnes (center).

SGA President Rick Carnes is featured panelist at the recent World Creators Summit.

SGA President Rick Carnes (second from left) is the featured panelist at a recent World Creator's Summit.

Pro & Developing Songwriter Services

In addition to the advocacy work done by the SGA, developing and professional songwriters benefit from our live events and other services.

SGA President Rick Carnes and board member Janis Carnes perform at an at Bitter End, New York City.

SGA President Rick Carnes and board member Janis Carnes perform at the world-famous Bitter End in New York City.

Andre Akin and Tony Baker talk songwriting at the L.A. SGA Week.

SGA Foundation

The SGA Foundation engages in outreach to communities and populations in need of education about songwriting, music and the role these arts play in the enrichment of our lives and the advancement of our spiritual and intellectual growth.

Outreach efforts include the education of students, teachers and others in the art of songwriting and basic music skills.

Further educational efforts seek to help developing songwriters improve their creative skills and develop the business skills needed to survive in the music business, today.

The Foundation is also responsible for our American Standards Award.

Recording artist Pam Tillis (left front) and SGA President Rick Carnes (left back), pose with soldiers from a music worskshop at the military's Walter Reed Hospital.

Recording artist Pam Tillis (left, front) and SGA President Rick Carnes (left back) pose with soldiers from a music worskshop held at the military's Walter Reed Hospital.