ASCAP to honor Kenny Chesney

NASHVILLE, Oct. 6 (UPI) -- The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers Thursday named Kenny Chesney as the recipient of its highest country music award.

Chesney will be given the Voice of Music Award during the 43rd Annual ASCAP Country Music Awards gala Oct. 17 at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium.

The publishers and writers of the most performed country songs in 2004 that are registered with ASCAP will also be honored.

The award going to Chesney honors artists and songwriters whose music gives people a voice, ASCAP said in a news release.

Only four other artists have received the award: Garth Brooks, George Strait, Diane Warren and Amy Grant.

Chesney was named Entertainer of the Year by both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.