Photo gallery 2: 2011 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Dinner

Oklahoma country music stars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood sign autographs for fans before the Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Dinner Thursday in New York. Brooks was inducted into the hall of fame. (Associated Press photos)

Oklahoma natives Garth Brooks and Leon Russell were among the honorees Thursday night at the 2011 Songwriters Hall of Fame 42nd Anniversary Induction and Awards Dinner in New York City.

Along with Brooks and Russell, John Bettis, Billy Steinberg & Tom Kelly and Allen Toussaint were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame at the star-studded musical gala. Honored with special awards were Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, who were presented the Johnny Mercer Award; Drake, who received the Hal David Starlight Award; the legendary Chaka Khan who received the Howie Richmond Hitmaker Award; Ervin Drake, who was presented the Towering Song Award for “It Was A Very Good Year;” and former hall of fame Chairman Emeritus Hal David, who received the first ever Visionary Leadership Award.

Here are some of the memorable moments from the event, from the Associated Press: