John Fogerty had a big night last Saturday at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey, where he was honored by the Bruce Springsteen Archives & Center for American Music. Fogerty described the recognition as "one of the most wonderful things I've ever been part of." He received the American Music Honors award, which, according to Robert Santelli, the founding executive director of the Center, "aims to celebrate those artists who have demonstrated artistic excellence, creative integrity, and a longstanding commitment to the value of music in our national consciousness. All of our inaugural honorees are worthy of acknowledgment and appreciation.”
Bruce Springsteen paid tribute to Fogerty, calling him the "Hank Williams of our generation" and expressing admiration for his songwriting. The Boss shared, “People ask what songs I wish I’d written. My answer? John Fogerty’s entire catalog.” The evening was further highlighted by Springsteen joining Fogerty on stage for performances of "Bad Moon Rising," "Proud Mary," and "Fortunate Son," creating an unforgettable musical experience for everyone present.
Reflecting on the event, Fogerty said, "I love Bruce Springsteen and over the years we've certainly been good friends, but also compadres in music and mischief making. The feeling in that theater that night, especially I know, just standing there with Bruce and singing some songs and enjoying music like we were kids. We both expressed that to each other later that night. That was really one of the highlights of my life being there and getting to feel that way. That's why we do this."
Other artists honored that night included Smokey Robinson, Emmylou Harris, Tom Morello, and Joe Ely. Previous honorees include Steve Van Zandt, John Mellencamp, Jackson Browne, Mavis Staples, Dion DiMucci, Darlene Love, Sam Moore, and Steve Earle.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]