Billy Joel, Carlos Santana and Herbie Hancock are among those selected to receive the 2013 Kennedy Center Honors. Also selected were actress Shirley MacLaine and opera singer Marina Arroyo.
Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein said “The Kennedy Center celebrates five extraordinary individuals who have spent their lives elevating the cultural vibrancy of our nation and the world. Martina Arroyo has dazzled the world with her glorious soprano voice and continues to share her artistry with a new generation of opera singers; Herbie Hancock has established himself as one of the most innovative musicians in the world, constantly breaking musical barriers and redefining the art of jazz; Billy Joel’s melodies have provided the soundtrack of our lives for over four decades making him one pop music’s most prolific and memorable singers and songwriters; the remarkable breadth and range of Shirley MacLaine’s acting has left an indelible impression over a nearly 60-year career on stage and screen; from his legendary performance at Woodstock to his sweep at the 2000 Grammys and beyond, Carlos Santana’s artistry transcends genres while entertaining millions.”
Billy Joel said in a statement “To be chosen for this special award essentially for doing what I love most amazes me more than anything.”
Carlos Santana commented “I guess people understand that Santana is not just a Mexican guitar player – I bring a collective-consciousness awareness agenda with me. I grew up with the generation of Woodstock and Bob Marley, One Love, and Imagine, John Lennon. I am one of them, and we don’t do what we do to be commercial or to be popular or to be cute. It’s not entertainment or show business for us. For us, it’s a calling.”
The presentation will be on Sunday, December 8 at the Kennedy Center Opera House and will be produced by George Stevens, Jr. and Michael Stevens. A variety of guests will be included during the show to honor each of the recipients. The ceremony will be broadcast on December 29 at 9 PM on CBS.
Read more at VVN Music
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