Carole King also led the way for others by becoming the first female solo artist achieving the sale of more than 10 million copies of a single album – her 1971 release “Tapestry.”
The Gershwin prize, named after the songwriter brothers George and Ira Gershwin, honors individuals for lifetime achievement in popular music. King is also known for writing songs like “You’ve Got a Friend” sung by James Taylor and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” sung by Aretha Franklin.
The husband-wife duo of King and Goffin had written a number of the biggest hits of the 60s before they split in 2968. Their song written in 1960 “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” performed by Shirelles, had brought them instant fame and recognition. The couple also wrote all time hits like “Take Good Care of My Baby” sung by Bobby Vee in 1961, “The Loco-Motion” 1962, and “Pleasant Valley Sunday,” 1967.
After receiving the news of her being chosen for the Gershwin prize, King said in a statement, “I was so pleased when the venerable Library of Congress began honoring writers of popular songs with the Gershwin Prize … I’m proud to be the fifth such honoree and the first woman among such distinguished company.”
Earlier recipients of the Gershwin prize include Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney and songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and Hal David.