- Music
- 17 Nov 16
As one of his last acts in The White House before handing over its keys to Donald Trump, the outgoing US President Barack Obama will bestow the country’s top award of the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Bruce Springsteen at a ceremony on November 22.
The Boss, who sang his seminal classic tune ‘Born In The USA' at a Clinton campaign rally during the dogfight election against Trump, will be honoured alongside 20 other prominent American figures.
Some of the other household names to receive the same honour on 22 November at the White House, include Hollywood icons Robert De Niro, Ellen DeGeneres, Robert Redford and Tom Hanks.
Another music icon, Diana Ross is also among those who will be presented with the award on the day, along with philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates. While two of the biggest names in basketball – Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar – are also included on the list.
The nation's highest civilian honour is “a tribute to the idea that all of us, no matter where we come from, have the opportunity to change this country for the better” President Barack Obama said in his announcement.
He added, “From scientists, philanthropists and public servants to activists, athletes, and artists, these 21 individuals have helped push America forward, inspiring millions of people around the world along the way.”
Here’s The Boss, who recently released his memoir to rave reviews, playing his some of his most popular tracks at a Clinton rally on the eve of the US presidential election.