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Tonight, the special Smokey Robinson: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, in tribute to the legendary singer. Being one of the founders of the Motown sound, Robinson is being honored for his achievements in songwriting, performance, and producing. Artists who have been selected for the award in the past include Billy Joel and Willie Nelson. In his career, Robinson has been known for hit songs including “I Second That Emotion”, “Cruisin'”, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” and countless others. Robinson’s song “The Tracks of My Tears” was actually named to the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress in 2007. Additional awards that Robinson has received include but are not limited to the Grammy Living Legend Award, NARAS Lifetime Achievement Award, Kennedy Center Honors, the presidential National Medal of Arts Award and the BET Lifetime Achievement Award, according to PBS.
For those hoping to watch the Smokey Robinson: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song and all the performances at the event, read on below for the details on what channel to watch, air time and the performers.
AIR DATE: February 10, 2017
TIME: 9 – 10:30 p.m. ET/PT
TV CHANNEL: PBS/WNET Programming
HOST: Samuel L. Jackson
PERFORMERS: Smokey Robinson, Aloe Blacc, Gallant, CeeLo Green, JoJo, Ledisi, Tegan Marie, Kip Moore, Corinne Bailey Rae, Esperanza Spalding, The Tenors, BeBe Winans.
ADDITIONAL GUESTS: Motown Founder Berry Gordy and Greg Phillinganes as the music director.
Check out music artist JoJo’s amazing tribute performance below.