George Strait, Lucinda Williams to Help Laud Tom Petty, 2017 MusiCares Honoree
George Strait and Lucinda Williams are stepping up to help honor the 2017 MusiCares Person of the Year, Tom Petty. The rock singer-songwriter will be lauded with an all-star tribute during the organization's 27th annual benefit gala in February.
In addition to Strait and Williams, Petty's tribute concert will include performances by the Foo Fighters, Don Henley, Norah Jones, Kings of Leon, Randy Newman, Stevie Nicks, Gary Clark Jr., Jeff Lynne, Jackson Browne, Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen, Elle King, Regina Spektor and the Bangles, with more to be announced. Petty and his band the Heartbreakers will close out the evening's performances, while T Bone Burnett will serve as the night's musical director.
Petty, who has won three Grammys throughout his career, is receiving the 2017 MusiCares Person of the Year honor in recognition of the work that he has done to defend artists' rights, as well as in honor of his charity work -- a large portion of which has been focused on helping Los Angeles' homeless population -- and because of his creative accomplishments. Through his long and successful career, Petty has become a role model for younger generations and an example of the positive side of rock 'n' roll.
"Tom burst into our musical consciousness and never let go," says Neil Portnow, president and CEO of the MusiCares Foundation and the Recording Academy, in a press release. "His brand of rock 'n' roll benefits from a celebratory rebelliousness, infectious rhythms and unforgettable lyrics that are incised in our imaginations. His artistic talents coupled with his quiet philanthropy make him a great MusiCares Person of the Year honoree, and we are very fortunate to have the support of our Board, past honorees and the musical community around this special event."
The 2017 MusiCares Person of the Year benefit gala is set to take place on Feb. 10, during Grammy Week, in LA. Proceeds from the event, which includes a dinner, the concert and a silent auction, will directly support the MusiCares organization, which provides services for musicians in times of need.
In 2016, Lionel Richie was named MusiCares' Person of the Year. He was lauded by, among others, Luke Bryan and Lady Antebellum.
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