U.S. rocker Bruce Springsteen has been named MusiCares’ 2013 Person of the Year in recognition of his artistic achievements as well as his philanthropic work, the Recording Academy said on Wednesday.
Springsteen, 63, will be honoured at a Feb. 8 gala in Los Angeles, hosted by comedian Jon Stewart and held in conjunction with the annual Grammy Awards, the recording world’s most prestigious honours, which will be handed out Feb. 10.
“The Boss” has actively supported many charities over the years, including those focused on homelessness, hunger and helping veterans. Last year, he participated in benefit concerts to aid victims of superstorm Sandy.
Among top music stars slated to perform at the MusiCares gala are Sting, Neil Young, Jackson Browne, Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill, Elton John, Tim McGraw and Patti Smith.
Past MusiCares Person of the Year honourees have included Tony Bennett, Bono, Phil Collins, Neil Diamond, Aretha Franklin, Billy Joel, Elton John, Sting, Paul McCartney, Luciano Pavarotti and Barbra Streisand.
New Jersey native Springsteen, known for hits including Born to Run, Born in the U.S.A. and Dancing in the Dark, has won a string of honours including Grammys, Golden Globes and Academy Awards.
He has often taken inspiration from his home state and used his celebrity to highlight its charms and challenges, most notably in the aftermath of superstorm Sandy, which devastated New Jersey’s famous coastline in October.
MusiCares maintains a foundation that provides programs and services to members of the music community such as emergency financial assistance and educational workshops.
© Copyright 2013
