LGBTQ news and entertainment
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| Aretha Franklin sings “Natural Woman” at 2015 Kennedy Center Honors |
Yes, everything you heard about Aretha Franklin’s performance of “Natural Woman” in a salute to Carole King at the Kennedy Center Honors last night is true.
Aretha’s electrifying performance brought the house down resulting in an instantaneous standing ovation. And for good reason.
Wait for the moment when she drops her fur coat like a boss. #Killer #AllHailTheQueen
The Kennedy Center has announced its 2014 honorees which include out actress/comedienne Lily Tomlin:
“The Kennedy Center celebrates five extraordinary individuals who have spent their lives elevating the cultural vibrancy of our nation and the world,” stated Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein.
“Al Green’s iconic voice stirs our souls in a style that is all his own; Tom Hanks has a versatility that ranks him among the greatest actors of any generation; one of the world’s greatest ballerinas, Patricia McBride continues to carry forward her legacy for future generations; Sting’s unique voice and memorable songwriting have entertained audiences for decades; and from the days of her early television and theatrical appearances, Lily Tomlin has made us laugh and continues to amaze us with her acting talent and quick wit.”
The induction takes place on December 7th. CBS will air the gala performance on December 30,
The 36th Annual Kennedy Center Honors will honor:
• opera singer Martina Arroyo
• pianist/band leader/composer Herbie Hancock
• pianist/singer/songwriter Billy Joel
• actress Shirley MacLaine
• musician/songwriter Carlos Santana
The annual event at Washington’s Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will air Sunday, Dec. 29, 9-11 PM ET/PT on CBS.
From today’s announcement:
“The Kennedy Center celebrates five extraordinary individuals who have spent their lives elevating the cultural vibrancy of our nation and the world,” said Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein. “Martina Arroyo has dazzled the world with her glorious soprano voice and continues to share her artistry with a new generation of opera singers; Herbie Hancock has established himself as one of the most innovative musicians in the world, constantly breaking musical barriers and redefining the art of jazz; Billy Joel’s melodies have provided the soundtrack of our lives for over four decades, making him one of pop music’s most prolific and memorable singers and songwriters; the remarkable breadth and range of Shirley MacLaine’s acting has left an indelible impression during a nearly 60-year career on stage and screen; from his legendary performance at Woodstock to his sweep at the 2000 Grammys and beyond, Carlos Santana’s artistry transcends genres while entertaining millions.”
The Honors recipients are recognized for their lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts – whether in dance, music, theater, opera, motion pictures or television – and are selected by the Center’s Board of Trustees.
(via Deadline)
A campaign has been launched to nominate Tony Award winner and Broadway legend Carol Channing for the Kennedy Center Honors.
People who know Carol well, like Broadway stars Lee Roy Reams and Marge Champion have joined the endeavor.
As many of you know, I spent several years working with Carol during the last revival of Hello, Dolly! on Broadway. A few years ago I was honored to share a Broadway stage with her again at the “Gypsy of the Year” gala in 2010 and was invited to speak about my experiences with her in the documentary “Carol Channing: Larger Than Life.”
I love Carol so dearly; and her talent is so vast, special and glorious.
You can personally recommend Carol for this well-deserved honor on the official Kennedy Center website by clicking here.
The Honors recipients are typically announced in early September, but the decisions on who to honor begin much, much earlier in the year. It’s never too early to recommend an artist for the honor.
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts today announced the selection of the seven individuals who will receive the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors.
Recipients to be honored at the 35th annual national celebration of the arts are: bluesman Buddy Guy, actor Dustin Hoffman, comedian and television host David Letterman, ballerina Natalia Makarova, and rock band Led Zeppelin.
While Led Zeppelin is being honored as a band, keyboardist/bassist John Paul Jones, guitarist Jimmy Page, and singer Robert Plant will each receive the Kennedy Center Honors.
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts today announced the selection of the individuals who will receive the 2011 Kennedy Center Honors.
Recipients to be honored at the 34th annual national celebration of the arts are: singer Barbara Cook, singer and songwriter Neil Diamond, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, saxophonist and composer Sonny Rollins, and actress Meryl Streep.
“This year, the Kennedy Center celebrates its 40th anniversary by selecting five extraordinary individuals whose collective artistry has contributed significantly to the cultural life of our nation and the world,” said Kennedy Center Chairman David M. Rubenstein. “With her sublime voice and rich performances, Barbara Cook has defined all that is best and brightest in the Great American Songbook. Neil Diamond’s songwriting genius has created one of the most enduring catalogs of American popular music and his live performances have captivated audiences for five decades. Yo-Yo Ma’s sterling musicianship makes him one of the most versatile and popular classical music performers in the world and his Silk Road Project has inspired students across the world to love and honor music. Saxophonist Sonny Rollins’ masterful improvisation and powerful presence have infused the truly American art form of jazz with passion and energy. The sheer brilliance and breadth of Meryl Streep’s performances count as one of the most exhilarating cultural spectacles of our time.”
Gala will be broadcast on CBS on December 27, 2011 at 9:00-11:00 p.m., ET/PT