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Robert Hunter, left, and Jerry Garcia teamed to write many signature songs for the Grateful Dead. (Left: Robert Hunter Facebook photo. Right: AP photo/Kristy McDonald)

The Songwriters Hall of Fame just might have the Grateful Dead's 50th anniversary in mind this year, as the organization announces its new list of inductees.

Robert Hunter and Jerry Garcia, key songwriting partners for the Dead, will be feted at a ceremony on June 18 in New York City, along with fellow inductees Toby Keith, Cyndi Lauper, Willie Dixon, Bobby Braddock and Linda Perry.

"Our 2015 lineup of inductees represents the rich diversity of American musical styles -- rock, country, blues and pop -- that have captivated the world over the past six decades," said Linda Moran, president of the songwriters hall, in a prepared statement. "Each one of these brilliant music creators have written instantly recognizable classics, songs that are both of their time and timeless."

Garcia (1942-1995), an iconic figure in jam-band circles, and Dixon (1915-1992), a Chicago musician often called the "poet laureate of the blues," will be honored posthumously.

Hunter, a singer-songwriter, was a primary lyricist for the Dead, considered a full member of the band although he didn't perform on stage. Many of the Dead's signature songs -- such as "Casey Jones" and "Uncle John's Band" -- are collaborations between Hunter (words) and frontman Garcia (music).

Deadheads young and old responded with ecstasy when four original members of the group -- Mickey Hart, Bill Kreutzmann, Phil Lesh and Bob Weir -- announced a series of reunion shows to commemorate the Dead's 50th anniversary, July 3-5, at Chicago's Soldier Field. Guest artists wil be Trey Anastasio, Jeff Chimenti and Bruce Hornsby.

The Songwriters Hall also will tip its cap to:

Keith, a hard-driving, party-hearty country star with an impressive resume of No. 1 hits. They include "I Love This Bar," "Made in America," "Beer for My Horses," "Who's Your Daddy?" and "How Do You Like Me Now?" Keith, a favorite in the Birmingham area, will make his next appearance here on July 31 at Oak Mountain Amphitheatre in Pelham.

Lauper, a household name in pop music. She came to fame initially in the 1980s with "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" and became known for her irreverence, heart and willingness to take risks. Lauper's catalog includes "Time After Time," "She Bop," "True Colors and more. She recorded a blues album in 2010 and teamed with Harvey Fierstein for the Tony-winning musical "Kinky Boots." Lauper's last performance in Birmingham was in October 2011 at the Alys Stephens Center.

Dixon, a bassist, singer and guitarist. A prolific writer, he made an indelible impact on Chicago blues music during the 1950s and '60s. He also provided an important bridge from blues to rock 'n' roll, with songs covered by artists ranging from Jimi Hendrix to the Rolling Stones to Bob Dylan. His catalog includes "Back Door Man," "Hoochie Coochie Man," "I Just Want to Make Love to You," "Spoonful," "Pretty Thing" and more.

Braddock, a longtime country hitmaker and member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. His songs have been recorded by artists such as Tammy Wynette, George Jones, Charlie Louvin, George Jones, Little Jimmy Dickens and Tracy Lawrence. Braddock's credits include "D-I-V-O-R-C-E," "Golden Ring," "He Stopped Loving Her Today," "Texas Tornado" and "Time Marches On."

Perry, a rock artist, songwriter and producer. She started her career as the lead singer of 4 Non Blondes and later became a solo artist. Perry has earned her greatest success offstage, as she founded two record labels and created songs recorded by Christina Aguilera ("Beautiful"), Gwen Stefani, Adam Lambert, Britney Spears and more. Perry's collaborators have ranged from Courtney Love to Alicia Keys to Cheap Trick.

All inductees to the Songwriters Hall of Fame will be feted at an event at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York, with proceeds benefiting the hall and its programs. Tickets are $1,250; call 914-579-1000 for more info. Other awards will be presented that evening, but the honorees haven't been announced.