Former Beatles star Paul McCartney will accept the accolade at a special ceremony at the White House in Washington D.C. on June 1, where he will also perform for the US President. Other performers at the concert will include the Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl, country music star Faith Hill, British singer/songwriter Elvis Costello, the Jonas Brothers and Stevie Wonder – who won the prize last year.
Explaining in November why Paul had been chosen for the accolade – which is awarded in recognition of a lifetime’s contribution to popular music – Librarian of Congress James Billington said: “Sir Paul has been writing and performing for more than five decades – as a member of iconic groups and as a solo artist – in genres ranging from rock’n’roll to classical compositions. “He also has made an impact far beyond music through his humanitarianism and activism around the world.” The first Gershwin Prize was awarded in 2008 to Paul Simon. Photo: Fame Pictures
