By Amanda Wicks
Tom Petty has been named as the 2017 MusiCares Person of the Year. He marks the 27th recipient to receive the honor, and will be recognized at the benefit gala held on February 10th, 2017, two days before the 59th Annual GRAMMY Awards.
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Petty earned the Person of the Year award for his career-long interest in helping those in the music community as well as his charitable work helping the homeless in Los Angeles. With regards to music, he’s been a particular advocate for artists and artists’ rights.
Neil Portnow, President/CEO of MusiCares and The Recording Academy, said of Petty, “Tom burst into our musical consciousness and never let go. His brand of rock and 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 MusiCares Foundation was formed in 1989 by The Recording Academy to offer programs and services to members of the music community who might be experiencing personal, financial or medical need.
Petty said of the award, “I am so very pleased to be honored as the MusiCares Person of the Year. I have so much respect for this organization, which really does care about the people in our industry. I myself know many people who MusiCares has aided in desperate situations. Again, let me say this is a true honor.”
