Society of Singers to honor Elton John

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., April 26 (UPI) -- The Society of Singers will present its 14th Annual Ella Award to pop icon Elton John, the Beverly Hills-based organization announced Tuesday.

Jerry Sharell, the non-profit's president and CEO, said John was being recognized for his body of work, as well as for his fund-raising efforts on behalf of AIDS treatment and research.

"A couple of generations have now grown up listening to his songs, and he's truly one of the greats, not just in pop and rock, but also in film and theatrical music," said Sharell. "But just as crucially, he is also a pioneer in the worldwide fight against AIDS and a humanitarian whose efforts exemplify what the Ella Award seeks to honor."

John joins a list of Ella winners, including Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee, Lena Horne, Joe Williams, Tony Bennett, Julie Andrews, Celine Dion and Ella Fitzgerald -- for whom the award is named. He will receive the award during Oct. 10 ceremonies in Beverly Hills.

The Society of Singers provides emergency financial help for professional singers worldwide, using donations from private and corporate sponsors.