Jill Furmanovsky Honored with Icon Award at Abbey Road Music Photography Awards 2024

Jill Furmanovsky has been awarded the ICON Award at the 2024 Abbey Road Music Photography Awards, celebrating her legendary career capturing some of music's most iconic moments.

Abbey Road Studios has proudly announced that Jill Furmanovsky, a trailblazer in rock music photography, is the recipient of the prestigious ICON Award at the 2024 Music Photography Awards (MPAs). Furmanovsky’s extraordinary career, spanning over five decades, has produced some of the most iconic images in music history, featuring legends such as Bob Marley, Eric Clapton, Blondie, The Police, Led Zeppelin, and Oasis. Her deep-rooted connection with Abbey Road Studios began in her youth and has flourished into a storied legacy that includes capturing Pink Floyd’s ‘Wish You Were Here’ sessions and Oasis recording ‘Be Here Now.’

Furmanovsky expressed her gratitude, saying, “It is an honor to receive such a prestigious award from Abbey Road, a place that holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been fortunate to photograph some of the greatest musicians in the world, and Abbey Road has always been a magical part of that journey.”

Abbey Road’s Managing Director, Sally Davies, praised Furmanovsky’s contribution, stating, “Jill holds a special place in the heart of rock music photography. Her remarkable talent has gifted us with some of the most iconic images that tell the Abbey Road story.”

In addition to Furmanovsky’s accolade, Abbey Road Studios also announced that London-based photographer Sam Rockman will be returning as their Photographer in Residence for 2024. A finalist in two categories at the 2023 MPAs, Rockman’s work is known for its deep connection to his Finnish roots and his ability to capture the essence of the diverse individuals and stories he encounters.

Rockman shared his excitement, saying, “I am incredibly excited to begin my role as the resident photographer at Abbey Road Studios. This iconic studio has been home to some of the greatest musical moments in history, and to have the opportunity to document its ongoing legacy is a real honor.”

The Music Photography Awards ceremony will take place on October 3rd, 2024, at Abbey Road Studios, where the winners across various categories will be celebrated. The judging panel, led by renowned photographer Rankin, includes a diverse group of industry powerhouses who will select the winners in each category.

Sinead OConnor 9-6-94 ©Jill Furmanovsky Archive
Depeche Mode, Gover Cricket school 16-3-1982 by Jill Furmanovsky
OASIS Liam + Noel Gallagher, San Francisco, 1995 by Jill Furmanovsky
STEVIE WONDER, London 1991 & Rainbow Theatre 1973 montage by JF