Paul Simon and Friends: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song
Paul Simon and Friends: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song (2007)
The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song will honor either a songwriter, interpreter, or singer/songwriter whose career reflects lifetime achievement in promoting the genre of song as a vehicle of artistic expression and cultural understanding. Paul Simon, one of America's most respected songwriters and musicians, was the recipient of the first annual Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. Named in honor of the legendary George and Ira Gershwin, the award recognizes the profound and positive effect of popular music on the world's culture.
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Very Cool!!!
The biggest problem with this movie is it’s a little better than you think it might be, which somehow makes it worse. As in, it takes itself a bit too seriously, which makes most of the movie feel kind of dull.
The movie's not perfect, but it sticks the landing of its message. It was engaging - thrilling at times - and I personally thought it was a great time.
I saw only about 10 - 15 minutes of this. I came in near the beginning of Alison Krauss doing "The Boxer". My first thought was: "Oh, no! Not a bluegrass version; what will they think of next". I stayed with it, though, and was heartily rewarded. In retrospect, bluegrass is a good choice for "The Boxer", and Krauss delivered. In particular, Krauss' fiddle during the bridge was very moving. My only complaint was that the song was done as a duet. The harmonies were beautiful but the singer in "The Boxer" is supposed to be so very lonely, and the second voice seems contrary to that theme. That's a very minor point, though.Next came Lyle Lovett doing "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover ". Wow, what a horrible programming choice! Lovett did a great job, but the manipulation, deceit, and superficial emotions that are at the heart of "50 Ways .. " left me feeling disgusted. I remember when "50 Ways ... " first came out. It was hip, slick - seemed really sophisticated and clever. Coming right after "The Boxer", though, made it seem juvenile and prurient.James Taylor and the Dixie Hummingbirds restored the mood with a genuine-sounding "Slip Slidin' Away". Great stuff! I really enjoy seeing talented performers working together - just thinking of how much they must be enjoying themselves makes my enjoyment all the greater.I definitely will watch this all the way through, and probably increase my score - except this time I'll FF through "50 Ways ... "!