LOS ANGELES (AFP) – Legendary U.S. singer-songwriter Carole King was named Thursday as the recipient of an annual honor by organizers of the Grammys, the music industry’s annual awards show set for January.
King, whose 1971 album “Tapestry” stayed in the U.S. music charts for six years, will be serenaded by artists including former partner James Taylor, as well as Lady Gaga, Bette Midler and the Dixie Chicks, when she is given the MusiCares Person of the Year award.
“Her contributions as a songwriter and performer have truly changed the landscape of pop music, and her philanthropy speaks volumes about her generosity and personal passions,” said Neil Portnow, president of the Recording Academy, which runs the Grammys.
The 71-year-old singer’s biggest hits include “You’ve Got a Friend” and “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?” She has won four Grammys over a long career, and is a member of the Rock and Roll and Songwriters’ Halls of Fame.
Recent recipients of the MusiCares prize, established in 1989, include Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen and Barbra Streisand. Other past winners include Elton John, Paul Simon, Billy Joel and Bono. Taylor was given the gong in 2006.
The award will be given out in Los Angeles on January 14, in the run-up to the Grammys show on January 26.
Photo Credit: AFP/Brendan Smialowski
