Page "Paul Simon" Paragraph 62

In 2007, Simon received the first annual Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song in 2007.

Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney were to follow in 2009 and 2010.

Named in honor of George and Ira Gershwin, this newly created award recognizes the profound and positive effect of popular music on the world ’ s culture.

Upon being notified of receiving this honor, Simon said, “ I am grateful to be the recipient of the Gershwin Prize and doubly honored to be the first.

I look forward to spending an evening in the company of artists I admire at the award ceremony in May.

I can think of a few who have expressed my words and music far better than I. I ’ m excited at the prospect of that happening again.

It ’ s a songwriter ’ s dream come true.

" Among the performers who paid tribute to Simon were Stevie Wonder, Alison Krauss, Jerry Douglas, Lyle Lovett, James Taylor, Dianne Reeves, Marc Anthony, Yolanda Adams, and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

The event was professionally filmed and broadcast and is now available as Paul Simon and Friends.