ASCAP Names Adam Sandler for 2026 Founders Award at ASCAP Experience

ASCAP will honor Adam Sandler with its Founders Award at the 2026 ASCAP Experience on Thursday, February 12, at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles.

“Adam is a giant of comedy, and so many of his most hilarious onscreen moments are based in music and song,” ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams said in the announcement, referencing fan favorites like “Opera Man,” “The Chanukah Song,” and “Grow Old with You.”

According to a press release, Sandler has been an ASCAP member for 33 years and has nearly 450 ASCAP-registered works, spanning SNL-era songs such as “The Thanksgiving Song,” “Lunchlady Land,” and “Red Hooded Sweatshirt,” along with later material including his tribute to Chris Farley in the 2019 Netflix special 100% Fresh. The release also notes that Sandler has released six albums, with two reaching double-platinum status, and has received three Grammy nominations.

ASCAP describes the Founders Award as an honor for songwriters and composers who have made pioneering contributions that inspire and influence fellow creators. Past recipients listed by the organization include Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Tom Petty, Patti Smith, Dr. Dre, Carly Simon, Billy Joel, Tom Waits, Diane Warren, Quincy Jones, Neil Young, and Elvis Costello.

Sandler’s songwriting has also been featured across his film work, with the press release citing songs that appear in projects including The Wedding Singer, 50 First Dates, The Meyerowitz Stories, and Eight Crazy Nights.

The award will be presented during ASCAP Experience, ASCAP’s one-day conference for songwriters, composers, producers, and other music creators. The event includes panels, workshops, performances, and networking, and is now in its 20th year, according to the release.

ASCAP’s event site lists the 2026 Experience as currently at capacity. For additional details, including general event information, visit the official ASCAP Experience site.

^{Header Photo Courtesy Elena Ternovaja/Wikimedia Commons}