Elton John Bags Library of Congress Gershwin Prize After Achieving EGOT Status

Elton John and Bernie Taupin will be receiving this year's Gershwin Prize for Popular Song celebrating their songwriting contributions in the past decade.

The award came after Elton John finally won his Emmy Award, thus becoming the latest artist to achieve EGOT status.

Elton John Gershwin Prize

The Library of Congress announced the momentous news recently, as Variety reported. As of this writing, there is no reported lineup yet for the tribute, and will only be an invitation-only crowd.

Grammy producers Ken Ehrlich Productions will be co-producing the Gershwin Gala with ERTA in Washington D.C. and the Library of Congres.

"I've been writing songs with Bernie for 56 years, and we never thought that that one day this might be bestowed upon us," Elton John said in a statement. "It's an incredible honor for two British guys to be recognized like this. I'm so honored."

As for Taupin, he had this to say: "To be in a house along with the great American songwriters, to even be in the same avenue is humbling, and I am absolutely thrilled to accept."

As for the Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden, John and Taupin have written "some of the most memorable songs of our lives."

"Their careers stand out for the quality and broad appeal of their music and their influence on their fellow artists. More than 50 years ago, they came from across the pond to win over Americans and audiences worldwide with their beautiful songs and rock anthems. We're proud to honor Elton and Bernie with the Gershwin Prize for their incredible impact on generations of music lovers," she added in a statement.

"Elton John and Bernie Taupin: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song" will be broadcast on PBS stations on Apr. 8, and will be available on the network's respective websites, selected stations, and mobile applications.

Elton John EGOT Status

At the 2024 Primetime Emmy Awards, Elton John officially became the latest EGOT awardee after winning the Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Best Variety Special Live for his "Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium."

"I am not Elton John, sadly he had a knee op. He's absolutely fine but wanted to send his love and thanks to the Television Academy for this incredible award," said producer Ben Winston, who accepted the award on his behalf. "We knew this show would be historic because it was going to be Elton's last ever show in North America on tour. We knew it would be historic because it was Disney's first live global stream."

In a social media post following his win, Elton had this to say: "We won an Emmy, and I am on cloud nine!! Receiving this recognition is a testament to the passion and dedication of everyone involved, and I am so deeply grateful."

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