CaroleKing.comCarole King will be presented with the 2013 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song this spring in Washington, D.C. The acclaimed singer/songwriter will be celebrated for her career achievements at a variety of events, including a luncheon and a tribute concert that will take place at the Library of Congress' Coolidge Auditorium.
King, of course, wrote or co-wrote an impressive series of hits for many artists throughout the 1960s before becoming an award-winning solo artist in her own right following the release of her classic 1971 album, Tapestry. She will be the first woman to receive the honor.
The Gershwin Prize is awarded to composers whose contributions to the world of pop music "exemplify the standard of excellence associated with" the famed sibling songwriting team of George and Ira Gershwin. Previous honorees include Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney and the duo of Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
"I was so pleased when the venerable Library of Congress began honoring writers of popular songs with the Gershwin Prize," says King in a statement. "I'm proud to be the fifth such honoree and the first woman among such distinguished company."
Librarian of Congress James H. Billington calls Carole "one of the most influential songwriters of our time." He adds, "Her body of work reflects the spirit of the Gershwin Prize with its originality, longevity and diversity of appeal."
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