A Night of Legends: Stars Shine at Kennedy Center Honors

The Kennedy Center Honors celebrated singer Bonnie Raitt, filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, jazz musician Arturo Sandoval, and the Grateful Dead. This year, Harlem's Apollo Theater was included, marking the first time an institution received this top U.S. arts accolade. The event emphasized the artistic power to challenge and inspire.

On a memorable Sunday evening, luminaries from various artistic fields were honored at the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. Notable figures included singer Bonnie Raitt, filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, jazz maestro Arturo Sandoval, and the iconic rock band the Grateful Dead. Adding a historic dimension, Harlem's Apollo Theater was celebrated, marking the first time an institution received this significant U.S. arts accolade.

The event featured a star-studded audience, including outgoing President Joe Biden, who praised artists for their ability to challenge power through creativity. A poignant moment arose with a tribute to Bonnie Raitt, highlighting her Grammy-winning career and soul-stirring music, followed by a celebration of Sandoval's illustrious journey from Cuba to becoming a trumpeting icon.

The evening's festivities also paid homage to Coppola, whose cinematic achievements were lauded by actor Robert De Niro. The show concluded with a spirited tribute to the Grateful Dead, capturing the enduring magic of their music. This unique convergence of culture and politics will be broadcast on CBS on Dec. 22.

(With inputs from agencies.)