20 Years of hit-making will open the door for induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame – this years’ class includes several hit-makers from R&B including: Mariah Carey, the Isley Brothers, William “Mickey” Stevenson, also Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo of the Neptunes. 

Joining the line-up are former Eurythmics members Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, Rick Nowels, and Steve Miller.

Leading the pack this year is Carey, who has 19 number one hits from her career; she comes second in history behind the Beatles who had 20 number one hits. Interestingly enough, her song “All I want for Christmas is You,” just hit number one for the first time ever since its’ release 25 years ago.

Williams and Hugo met in their youth; they teamed up in middle school and have put out number one’s for: Snoop Dogg – “Drop it Like it’s Hot,” Nelly – “Hot in Herre,” and Britney Spears – “Slave for You.”  They are even responsible for giving Gwen Stefani a name with “Hollaback Girl.” These producers have a tremendous line-up for talent – back in 2002, they produced more than half of the songs on Justin Timberlake’s album, “Justified;” the album that was pivotal in his success as a solo artist.

While it goes without saying, the Isley Brothers are more than accomplished within the music industry. They’ve written hits for Naughty by Nature – “Hip Hop Hooray,” Fantasia – “Truth Is,” and Justin Beiber, just to name a few.

The Motown smash “Dancing in the Street,” performed by Martha and the Vandellas, was co-written by Stevenson. He also co-wrote “It Takes Two” for Marvin Gaye and Kim Weston, who he later married, and “Devil with a Blue Dress On” for Mitch Ryder and The Detroit Wheels.

All inductees are expected to appear at the induction ceremony in New York City in June. 

PHOTO:  Honorees (clockwise, starting at the top left) Rick Nowels, The Neptunes — Pharrell and Chad Hugo, Steve Miller, Annie Lenox, Dave Steward, William “Mickey” Stevenson, Mariah Carey and the Isley Brothers.