(New York) Elton John and Bernie Taupin, the songwriters who offered Your Song, Little Dancer And Rocket Manwill receive the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song later this year.
The Library of Congress announced Tuesday that singer-songwriter Elton John and lyricist Bernie Taupin will receive the Gershwin Prize, being called by the institution “one of the greatest songwriting duos of all time.” time “.
The award will be presented to them during a tribute concert in Washington on March 20. PBS will broadcast excerpts on April 8.
“Elton John and Bernie Taupin wrote some of the most memorable songs of our lives. Their careers are distinguished by the quality and broad appeal of their music and by their influence on their fellow artists,” Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden said in a statement.
The award, named after Jazz songwriters George and Ira Gershwin, is described as “the highest national honor for influence, impact and achievement in popular music.”
Taupin was in many ways the Ira to John’s George Gershwin, a lyricist who loved telling stories with his words. John was the showman, hammering away on his piano and famous for his impressive melodic hooks and elaborate costumes.
Previous recipients of the award include Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, Willie Nelson, Smokey Robinson, Tony Bennett, Lionel Richie, Joni Mitchell, Emilio and Gloria Estefan and Garth Brooks.
“I’ve been writing songs with Bernie for 56 years, and we never thought that one day this could be ours,” Elton John said in a statement. It’s an incredible honor for two Brits to be recognized in this way. I am so honored. »
“Being in a house with America’s great songwriters, even on the same avenue, is humbling, and one I’m absolutely thrilled to accept. »