Jessica Simpson Expected at BMI Awards

10/31/2007 Stephen L. Betts The 55th Annual BMI Country Awards are set for Nov. 6, with the performing rights organization recognizing the songwriters and publishers of the past year's most performed BMI country songs on U.S. television and radio. Willie Nelson will also be honored as a BMI Icon at the invitation-only event which will be held at the company's Music Row offices in Nashville. Hosted by BMI President & CEO Del Bryant and Nashville Writer/Publisher VP Jody Williams, the ceremony will also recognize the Country Songwriter of the Year, Country Publisher of the Year and most performed Country Song of the Year, also know as the Robert J. Burton Award. In addition to Willie Nelson, dozens of other artists are expected to attend the black-tie gala including Country Music Hall of Fame members Bill Anderson (also a BMI Icon), Kris Kristofferson and Vince Gill, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn's Ronnie Dunn, Martina McBride, Jessica Simpson, Toby Keith, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, Kid Rock, Ryan Adams, Dwight Yoakam, Little Big Town and Montgomery Gentry.