BMI Remembers Country Songwriter Hugh Prestwood

BMI was very saddened to learn of the passing of renowned songwriter Hugh Prestwood, who died on Sunday, September 22, at 82. A gifted songwriter and musician, Prestwood's dedication to his craft was unparalleled, and he helped shape the sound of country music by penning timeless hits for artists like Randy Travis, Trisha Yearwood, and Jimmy Buffet, among many others.

His lyrical depth and emotional storytelling captivated audiences, earning him accolades throughout his career. Three of his songs were nominated for GRAMMYs in the Best Performance category, including "Sound of Goodbye" by Crystal Gayle, "Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart" by Randy Travis, and "Ghost in This House" by Shenandoah. Prestwood's hit for Trisha Yearwood, "The Song Remembers When," earned him a Nashville Songwriters Association International Song of the Year Award and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement in Music and Lyrics. In 2006, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. He also received 8 BMI Awards, including the Country Song of the Year Award for "Hard Rock Bottom of Your Heart."

Leaving behind an incredible legacy, Hugh Prestwood will be greatly missed by his friends, fans and family at BMI.