A little over a year after being celebrated at the Kennedy Center, Joni Mitchell will return to Washington for another lifetime achievement honor: the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.
Mitchell, 79, is widely regarded as among the greatest singer-songwriters of her time, with her best known works including “Chelsea Morning,” “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Free Man in Paris.”
“Joni Mitchell’s music and artistry have left a distinct impression on American culture and internationally, crossing from folk music with a distinctive voice whose songs will stay with us for the ages,” Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden said in a statement released Thursday. “Joni Mitchell’s music has so many artists and music lovers all singing her tunes.”
Mitchell, who lives in Los Angeles, will be honored March 1 at a tribute concert airing March 31 on PBS stations. Previous winners of the Gershwin prize include Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder and Carole King.
“This is a very prestigious award,” Mitchell said in the statement. “Thank you for honoring me.”
More:Joni Mitchell makes emotional return to the stage at MusiCares pre-Grammys tribute
Mitchell was also honored as the MusiCares person of the year before last year’s Grammys. After nearly two decades away, she returned to the stage in August and plans to perform again this coming June.
Last year, Lionel Richie was feted as the 2022 recipient of the Library of Congress’ Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. A lustrous cast of friends – Gloria Estefan, Boyz II Men, Chris Stapleton, Richie’s “American Idol” mate Luke Bryan and gregarious host Anthony Anderson among them – paid tribute to the singer/songwriter’s melodious catalog of solo work and Commodores classics at a brisk, joyful concert at DAR Constitution Hall.
Gershwin Prize 2022:Lionel Richie lauded by Luke Bryan, Gloria Estefan at Gershwin Prize concert: ‘He was just the world’s music’
The Gershwin Prize is named for the legendary songwriting team of George and Ira Gershwin to recognize a living musical artist’s lifetime achievement in promoting the song genre.
Contributing: Melissa Ruggieri, USA TODAY
Story Credit: usatoday.com