Springsteen, Brubeck, De Niro, Brooks, Bumbry to be honored by Kennedy Center

Washington Post

WASHINGTON — Start spinning “Born in the U.S.A.” The Kennedy Center unfolded its 2009 roster of five Kennedy Center honorees Wednesday morning, led by Bruce Springsteen and Dave Brubeck.

Also to be honored this year, the center announced, are actor Robert De Niro, writer-director Mel Brooks and opera singer Grace Bumbry.

“With his hilarious movies and musicals, Mel Brooks has created comedic gems that will keep us laughing for years to come. [Jazz great] Dave Brubeck’s genius has dazzled us for six decades and has helped to define an American art form,” said Stephen Schwarzman, the center’s chairman. His statement also praised Bumbry’s pioneering work. “Grace Bumbry helped to break the color barrier on her way to one of the most-illustrious operatic careers in the 20th century.”

He also saluted De Niro and Springsteen for their connection with artistry, songs and their audiences.

The awards are given the first weekend of December.