This year’s selections span 102 years, from 1913 to 2015.
The singer-songwriter's Warner debut, Fireworks & Rollerblades, marks its first anniversary on the Billboard 200 this week
Previous recipients include Marvin Hamlisch, John Barry, Giorgio Moroder and Elliot Goldenthal.
Kirk Franklin and Charles Jenkins tied for Songwriter of the Year; Capitol CMG Publishing won Publisher of the Year.
Pabllo Vittar & D4VD will also present at this year's ceremony, which will be held Sunday, May 25, in Tokyo.
The second installment of Billboard Japan’s series breaking down the trends of MAJ will focus on entries in the Top Global Hit From Japan category.
“Ray Charles is a beacon for me, a blueprint,” Batiste said in a statement.
Griff turned heads on the red carpet by showcasing custom Bose Ultra Open Ear Buds designed by jeweler Maggi Simpkins.
Charlie Handsome and Jessie Jo Dillon are also among the honorees.
The CEO wants the industry to know the organization does more than just hand out Grammys.
