

It’s hard to imagine Pearl Jam without Vedder’s unmistakable lead vocals, and his pipes have inspired countless tribute bands and parodies-like this Family Guy bit called “ Vedder Call Saul.” Vedder celebrates his 55th birthday today, so Paste is sharing some vintage concert footage of Pearl Jam back in 1992. The one with that gravelly grunge voice that captured the hearts of millions-even Parks and Recreation’s Andy Dwyer who cited Vedder as one of Mouse Rat’s biggest influences.

The complete list of guest performers is kept secret until the show is in progress, keeping both the Honorees and the nation on the edge of their seats.You know Eddie Vedder. It serves for millions of American arts lovers as the year’s crowning event, paying tribute to our nation’s preeminent artists with performances by the great stars of today who have followed in their footsteps. The annual Honors gala is an evening without categories, without disappointments, without competition - and the Honors telecast is a perennial Emmy nominee. At the same time, the annual addition of new names to the roster of Honors recipients charts the international standard of excellence set by America’s artists, as well as the aesthetic inspiration provided by artists of other nations who have achieved prominence on these shores. The Honors have been compared to a knighthood in Britain, or the French Legion of Honor - the quintessential reward for a lifetime’s endeavor. Throughout its 45-year history, the Kennedy Center Honors has redefined America’s perception of its artistic legacy and reinvented the way this nation rewards its artists. Hip hop has been an important, thriving art form here at the Center for a number of years what a privilege it is to bestow an Honors to the First Lady of Hip Hop who has inspired us along the way.” This year we pay special tribute to the 50th anniversary of hip hop, a uniquely American culture whose constant evolution is one of enduring relevance and impact, reflecting our society as it has grown into an international phenomenon. Each of them has explored new terrain, stretched artistic boundaries, and most importantly, committed to sharing their gifts with the world. “This year’s slate represents an extraordinary mix of individuals who have redefined their art forms and demonstrated remarkable tenacity and authenticity in becoming an original. A true comedic icon and multi-talented artist since the 1980s who has kept millions laughing around the world, Billy Crystal is responsible for some of the most memorable stand-up moments and hilarious Hollywood scenes in the last half-century Barry Gibb, along with his late brothers Robin and Maurice, set the music world on fire in the ‘60s and later defined the modern dance era with their trademark falsetto sound and groove style, becoming a pop superstar group for the ages fittingly known as ‘America’s soprano,’ the beloved opera star Renée Fleming has captivated audiences worldwide with her luminous voice, incomparable artistry, and a knack for bringing opera into the mainstream for more than four decades as the ‘First Lady of Hip Hop,’ Queen Latifah shaped and innovated the art form in its earliest days, representing black women everywhere and using the idiom to become a powerful voice for change and soulful songstress Dionne Warwick has blazed a trail with her signature voice, scintillating presence, and trove of hits that has become a soundtrack of inspiration for generations of artists and audiences.” “The Kennedy Center Honors recognizes artists who have made profound contributions to the cultural life of our nation.
