Singer and songwriter Willie Nelson was the 2015 recipient of the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. The all-star tribute featured performances by Nelson, as well as Edie Brickell, Leon Bridges, Rosanne Cash, Ana Gabriel, Jamey Johnson, Alison Krauss, Raul Malo of The Mavericks, Neil Young, Promise of the Real, Buckwheat Zydeco and past Gershwin Prize honoree Paul Simon

After getting her start in coffee shops Joni Mitchell went on to set a new standard, marrying music and lyrics with such songs as “Both Sides, Now.” While her early material is often categorized as “folk,” she became a household name with music that defies categorization.

The nation’s library, musical artists and American leaders honored pop music icon Lionel Richie in the nation’s capital on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, as he was awarded the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song during an all-star tribute concert. The lineup will include performances by previous Gershwin Prize honoree Gloria Estefan, Boyz II Men, Luke Bryan, Andra Day, Chris Stapleton, Miguel, Yolanda Adams, and a special performance by honoree Lionel Richie. Actor and comedian Anthony Anderson hosted the event.

Enjoy an all-star tribute to Smokey Robinson, the 2016 recipient of the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, with performances by Robinson, as well as Aloe Blacc, Gallant, CeeLo Green, JoJo, Ledisi, Tegan Marie, Kip Moore, Corinne Bailey Rae, Esperanza Spalding, The Tenors, BeBe Winans, and a special appearance by Berry Gordy, Founder of Motown, with Samuel L. Jackson as host and Greg Phillinganes as music director.

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.

Crossover comedian Earthquake serves up his straightforward brand of humor in this live stand-up performance. Earthquake's explosive jokes, intelligence and undeniable appeal make him a favorite of both urban and mainstream audiences -- he's appeared on Bill Maher's talk show and gone on the road with the Def Comedy Jam stand-up circuit. This one-hour special showcases the comedian at his unstoppable best.

A true story about the unreal life of an unsung country music hero. Ben Dorcy, aka Lovey, the first and oldest roadie, is recognized by the cultural icons who depend on him just as he’s losing his independence. Having outlived all his relatives, Ben learns he can rely on his music family. Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Johnny Knoxville, Kinky Friedman, Jamey Johnson, Ann-Margret, and more come together to honor this legend among legends who, unbeknownst to many, shaped Texas and American music history. “King of the Roadies” celebrates all who work to keep the wheels turning behind-the-scenes; and reminds us that with spirit, passion and perseverance, our best days may still be ahead of us if we continue doing what we love. “It’s one thing to have a bunch of good ideas, but to make them work and to put them into action, you need someone like Ben to do it, and he never failed.” – Willie Nelson

Two people from different parts of the world find themselves facing their own mortality in war torn Bosnia. Separated by language, it's the sound of Willie Nelson's guitar that connects them in a way that will forever change their lives.

An historic event: Peter Kubelka gives a lecture at the Library of Congress.

Willie Nelson, in his first network special as host, offers a unique look at the state where he was born and still lives, along with the locales and people who continue to influence his success as an artist.