Paul McCartney pays tribute Bruce Springsteen at the Ivor Novello Awards
At a ceremony in London on May 23rd, Bruce Springsteen was recognised as an Academy Fellow by the Ivor Novello Awards, making him the very first non-British artist to receive such an accolade. Paul McCartney presented him with the accomplished award, and he honoured the star with an amusing yet sincere speech.
McCartney began his speech by saying he “couldn’t think of a more fitting recipient”, jokingly adding about his longtime friend, “except maybe Bob Dylan. Or Paul Simon, or Billy Joel, or Beyoncé, or Taylor Swift. The list goes on.”
Continuing his playful musings, he said Springsteen is “known as the American working man, but he admits he’s never worked a day in his life!” He also recalled working with the musician in 2022 while performing at Glastonbury, and called him a “lovely boy”, per The Guardian.
McCartney and Springsteen have a lengthy history, having performed together on multiple occasions throughout the years. Notably, they last joined forces during McCartney’s iconic headline set at Glastonbury in 2022, when ‘The Boss’ and Dave Grohl made unexpected appearances to a rapturous ovation from the adoring masses at Worthy Farm.
While accepting the award, Springsteen discussed playing in Sunderland the previous night as he battled with both head and heart during the cantankerous British weather. “We came out last night and I was like, ‘what is this weather?’ Driving rain, wind roaring,” he recalled.
Describing the moment the environment and atmosphere caused an epiphany, he said: “Standing in front of me, in the rain, I realised: these are my people.”
Springsteen has previously expressed his pride in being considered for such a momentous achievement, saying, “I’m proud to be the first international songwriter to be recognised by The Ivors Academy.” He also thanked his fans in the United Kingdom, relaying his connection toward the place in a heartfelt ode: “The award stands as a tribute to the fans and friends who have supported me and my work for the last fifty year.”
Adding: “This entire country has made me feel welcome every step of the way, and for this, I will always remain deeply appreciative.”
As the first musician to win the award, many, alongside McCartney, have expressed support for the Acadamy making such a choice. Chair of the Ivors Academy, Tom Gray, also said that “there is no one more fitting” than Springsteen due to his ability to tell “the great stories”.
Elsewhere at the ceremony, Lana Del Rey was present to collect the ‘Special International Award’, KT Tunstall was handed the ‘Outstanding Song Collection Award’ and Raye was named ‘Songwriter of the Year’ by the institution.
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