SoundExchange has tabbed Randy Travis as the recipient of the organization’s Music Fairness Award, which honors his tireless efforts to protect creators by pressing to modernize copyright law through passage of American Music Fairness Act.

Travis, who suffers from aphasia, still managed to appear before Congress earlier this year alongside his wife Mary and SoundExchange President and CEO Michael Huppe to push for passage of the act. AMFA would require terrestrial broadcasters in the United States to pay artists royalties when their songs are played on the air.

Huppe said “Randy Travis is a music icon and a courageous leader, willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that everyone – from music fans to lawmakers – is aware of the inequities suffered by creators for more than a century. We are honored to present Randy with the Music Fairness Award.”

Speaking on behalf of her husband, Mary Travis said “Thank you to SoundExchange for recognizing Randy for his advocacy. He loves country radio and everyone in it, he also loves his fellow creators. What he is advocating for here is an equitable solution to better align artists, labels, and radio going forward under the changing environment of the music industry.”

Pictured at the award presentation are (L to R) SoundExchange Associate Director of Artist & Industry Relations Marc Rucker, SoundExchange President and CEO Michael Huppe, Randy Travis, and Mary Travis.