Few musicians have kept time for more legends than Harold Jones. He rose to prominence as the rhythmic heartbeat of the Count Basie Orchestra, spent decades as Tony Bennett's trusted musical anchor — including helming the drums for Bennett's iconic collaborations with Lady Gaga — and has performed and recorded alongside Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Oscar Peterson, and Benny Goodman. His is a career that didn't just witness the history of American jazz; it helped make it.

"This award is about recognizing the legacies and genius of outstanding unsung heroes who have shaped American music," said MELO CEO Josephine Beavers. "Harold Jones is an icon, and we want him to know how appreciated he is — by us, and by everyone whose life his music has touched."