It has been confirmed that Paul McCartney is set to be the latest musician to be awarded the coveted Gershwin Prize For Popular Music in spring next year.
Macca will be the third musician to receive the prize, which is named after brothers George and Ira Gershwin, since it’s inauguration in 2007, following in the footsteps of fellow legends Stevie Wonder and Paul Simon, who was the first recipient of the award. In February 2009, Stevie Wonder was presented with the award by the current US President Barack Obama.
James Billington, the US’ Librarian of Congress, told the New York Times that McCartney’s “lasting effect on music was what made him special.”
“It is hard to think of another performer and composer who has had a more indelible and trans-formative effect on popular song and music of several different genres,” he said.
A stellar tribute concert is expected to be arranged when the former Beatle receives the award, with McCartney confirming he will play the show, as well as declaring he is “hugely honoured” to receive the award.
McCartney recently announced a series of shows across Europe to take place next month, and will hit the UK with a show at London’s O2 Arena on December 22nd.