Julie Taboh | Washington, DC | 04 June 2010
Calling him the "most successful songwriter in history," U.S. President Barack Obama presented music legend Paul McCartney with the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.
McCartney was one of the four original members of The Beatles, whose string of record-breaking hits revolutionized pop music in the 1960s.
After their break-up in 1970, McCartney went out on his own, performing with his band Wings and then alone. His numerous hits include such classics as "Yesterday", "Hey Jude", and "Let It Be."
"Tonight it is my distinct pleasure to present America's highest award for popular music on behalf of a grateful nation, grateful that a young Englishman shared his dreams with us. Sir Paul McCartney," said President Obama in a ceremony at the White House.
The Gershwin is named after the renowned song writers George and Ira Gershwin and was given to McCartney in appreciation of his five decades of extraordinary contributions to American music.
"It is such a fantastic evening for me," McCartney said after receiving the prize. "I mean, getting this prize is good enough, but getting it from this president."
President Barack Obama presents Paul McCartney with the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song at the White House.
During the evening, McCartney sang some of his most famous songs, including his opening act, "Got to Get You into My Life."
The evening also included an all-star cast of performers who sang their own versions of McCartney hits. The performers included Stevie Wonder, Elvis Costello, Faith Hill and the Jonas Brothers.
But the highlight of the evening was clearly the guest of honor, who dedicated one of his classic hits, "Michelle," to the first lady.
Full article @ source, though is just a transcript of the following VOA video report:
Mini-picspam:
US President Barack Obama greets Paul McCartney after awarding him the third Gershwin Prize for Popular Song at the White House in Washington, DC on June 2, 2010. McCartney's appearance was part of a two-day series of events marking the award issued by the Library of Congress.
Paul McCartney performs "Michelle" after being awarded by US President Barack Obama with the third Gershwin Prize for Popular Song at the White House in Washington, DC on June 2, 2010. McCartney's appearance was part of a two-day series of events marking the award issued by the Library of Congress.
Other videos:
- President Obama Honors Paul McCartney
- Sir Paul McCartney Rocks the White House (GMA segment)
- Sample clips of Sir Paul singing "Michelle" to the FLOTUS (one | two)
- Everyone singing "Hey Jude" live at White House
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FYI: "In Performance at the White House" will air on PBS on July 28. :D
