Elton John and Bernie Taupin will be honored with the Library of Congress's Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, a prestigious award that recognizes the lifetime achievement of musical artists who enrich the culture of the United States.
Elton John and Bernie Taupin have been writing songs together for 56 years, creating some of the most memorable and beloved hits of all time, such as "Your Song", "Rocket Man", "Tiny Dancer", "Candle in the Wind", "Don't Go Breaking My Heart", and "I'm Still Standing". Their careers span across genres and generations, influencing countless artists and fans with their quality and diversity of music.
The Librarian of Congress, Carla Hayden, praised the duo for their remarkable contribution to American and global culture, saying, “Elton John and Bernie Taupin have written some of the most memorable songs of our lives. Their careers stand out for the quality and broad appeal of their music, and their influence on their fellow artists. More than 50 years ago, they came from across the pond to win over Americans and audiences worldwide with their beautiful songs and rock anthems. We’re proud to honor Elton and Bernie with the Gershwin Prize for their incredible impact on generations of music lovers.”
Elton and Bernie expressed their gratitude and excitement for receiving the award, which they never expected to achieve. Elton John said, "I've been writing songs with Bernie for 56 years, and we never thought that that one day this might be bestowed upon us. It's an incredible honor for two British guys to be recognized like this. I’m so honored.” Bernie Taupin added, "To be in a house along with the great American songwriters, to even be in the same avenue is humbling, and I am absolutely thrilled to accept."
The duo will be celebrated with a tribute concert in Washington, D.C. on March 20th, which will feature performances by various artists who have been inspired by their music. The concert will be broadcasted on PBS stations nationwide on April 8th, as part of the PBS Arts series. Elton John and Bernie Taupin will join the ranks of previous Gershwin honorees, such as Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, Carole King, Billy Joel, Willie Nelson, Smokey Robinson, Tony Bennett, Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Garth Brooks, Lionel Richie, Joni Mitchell, and Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
In addition to the Gershwin Prize, Elton John and Bernie Taupin will also be recognized for their humanitarian work, as Elton John's AIDS Foundation is among the honorees in the human & civil rights category in the third annual Anthem Awards, which highlight social impact work across the globe. The awards will be presented on March 18th in Los Angeles and will honor individuals and organizations who use their platforms to create positive change in the world.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]