MUSICARES PICKS TOM PETTY FOR GALA

The Recording Academy finally listened to their heart: Tom Petty will be honored as the MusiCares Person of the Year in February. The 27th annual benefit gala dinner and concert will be held 2/10.

Petty will be honored for his significant creative accomplishments, his career-long interest in defending artists' rights, and the charitable work he has undertaken throughout his career, which has notably focused on the homeless population in Los Angeles.

“I have so much respect for this organization, which really does care about the people in our industry," Petty said. "I myself know many people who MusiCares has aided in desperate situations. Again, let me say this is a true honor." Neil Portnow, President/CEO of the MusiCares Foundation and The Recording Academy said, "His brand of rock & roll benefits from a celebratory rebelliousness, infectious rhythms, and unforgettable lyrics that are incised in our imaginations. His artistic talents coupled with his quiet philanthropy make him a great MusiCares Person of the Year honoree.”

Artists who will perform Petty’s song will be announced at a later date.

This year, for the first time, a limited number of VIP experience tables will be available for $75k that include 10 seats, artist soundcheck, red carpet access, backstage access with a meet–and-greet, access to the pre-show auction and a special VIP lounge.