The Who’s Roger Daltrey was celebrated in London on June 16 when ASCAP presented him with its Founders Award at the 2026 ASCAP London Celebrates Songwriters and Composers event. The invite-only ceremony also honored Sir Idris Elba with the ASCAP Creative Voice Award and British R&B trio FLO with the ASCAP Vanguard Award.
ASCAP said the night was designed to spotlight U.K. songwriters and composers behind major global hits across music, film, and television, while also recognizing artists whose careers have made a wider cultural impact. Daltrey received the Founders Award for a legendary career that has shaped rock music for generations.
In its statement, ASCAP described Daltrey as a pioneering creator whose work has inspired generations of musicians. The organization also pointed to his role as co-founder and lead vocalist of The Who, noting his influence through landmark rock operas such as Tommy and Quadrophenia, as well as his solo work and decades of live performance.
The honor adds to a long list of major accolades for the 81-year-old singer. Daltrey was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, has been widely recognized for his charity work, and was knighted in December 2025 for his services to music and philanthropy.
ASCAP chairman and president Paul Williams praised Daltrey’s influence, calling his impact “legendary” and crediting his energy, passion, and authenticity. The award puts Daltrey in a prestigious line of past recipients that includes Sir Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Carly Simon, Billy Joel, Jeff Lynne, Diane Warren, and Quincy Jones.
