Jay Z just became the first rapper to be nominated for the Songwriters Hall Of Fame since its inception in 1969. Jay was among the 24 nominees announced this week, which also include Max Martin, Madonna, George Michael, Sly Stone, Cat Stevens, Bryan Adams, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Babyface, Gloria Estefan, and Jeff Lynne. Songwriters must have a career spanning at least 20 years to be eligible, and Hall Of Fame members will eventually vote to select five songwriters — two performers and three non-performers. The voting period ends in December, and the induction ceremony will take place next June in NYC.