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Rolling Stones on video: Keith Richards and Elvis Costello play Chuck Berry’s Promised Land
PEN New England Awards, John F. Kennedy Library And Museum, Boston, Massachusetts, Feb. 26 2012
The 2012 PEN New England Awards, held at the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, was a memorable night filled with incredible talent and tributes to the written word. The event brought together some of the most iconic figures in music and literature, including Keith Richards, Chuck Berry, Elvis Costello, and Leonard Cohen. Each of these legends brought their unique style and perspective, celebrating the power of storytelling in both song and literature.
Keith Richards was there to receive his award for Life, his bestselling memoir. The book gave fans an honest and gritty look at his life in the Rolling Stones, and it was clear from the applause that Richards’ raw storytelling resonated with the crowd. It was a rare moment where the rock star side of him met his literary side, creating a buzz in the literary world.
Chuck Berry was also honored that night. His music not only shaped the sound of the ’50s but also influenced generations of musicians, including Richards himself. Elvis Costello performed a special tribute to Berry (wrapping up the moment by playing Berry’s Promised Land wih Richards, and they rocked!), showing just how deeply his legacy has impacted the music world.
And of course, Leonard Cohen, the poet and singer-songwriter, was celebrated for his contribution to both literature and music. His ability to weave words into timeless songs and poems made him an iconic figure, and his presence that night was a reminder of his influence.
Overall, the 2012 PEN New England Awards at the Kennedy Library was a celebration of storytelling, both on the page and through music, with legends from both worlds coming together for a night to remember.
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