Dylan, 71, was one of 13 persons to receive the award Tuesday afternoon from President Obama at the White House. The medal honors “meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States or to world peace or to cultural or other significant endeavors.” The award was established by President Kennedy in 1963. According to the New York Times: "President Obama said of Dylan, 'There is not a bigger giant in the history of American music.' Mr. Obama also praised Mr. Dylan’s voice for its 'weight' and 'unique gravelly power' that redefined 'not just what music sounded like but the message it carried and how it made people feel.' ”
"One of the most influential American musicians of the 20th century, Dylan released his first album in 1962. Known for his rich and poetic lyrics, his work had considerable influence on the civil rights movement of the 1960s and has had significant impact on American culture over the past five decades. He has won 11 Grammys, including a lifetime achievement award. He was named a Commandeur dans l'Ordre des Art et des Lettresand has received a Pulitzer Prize Special Citation. Dylan was awarded the 2009 National Medal of Arts. He has written more than 600 songs, and his songs have been recorded more than 3,000 times by other artists. He continues recording and touring around the world today."
For a photo gallery comprising all 13 recipients, go here.
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Posted by: Don Thompson | May 29, 2012 at 06:12 PM
I know he didn't receive his award for his harmonica talent.
Posted by: wadkc | May 29, 2012 at 07:28 PM
hard to imagine back in the 60s that dylan would rec'v this kind of honor. i'm sure the irony was not lost on him.
Posted by: fiddler | May 30, 2012 at 06:54 AM
President "Obaba?" Sounds like a folksinger name there.
Posted by: Bewlay | May 30, 2012 at 08:24 AM
of course, he deserves the Medal, but wonder if it's possible to be over-praised and reach a point where the accolades start becoming more of a burden. if dylan is being taught and revered in middle and high schools, kids today will write him off as another 'great man of music' like beethoven and listen to someone else they feel is more relevant.
oh wait, there's still the nobel prize. that'll be next year.
Posted by: Rick | June 01, 2012 at 02:18 PM