Pianist, Composer Ramsey Lewis Honored In Chicago
CHICAGO (AP) — A Chicago jazz pianist, composer and legend is being honored with a lifetime achievement award on the occasion of African-American Heritage Month.
Chicago-born Ramsey Lewis received the award Thursday. It was presented by Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White at the Thompson Center in Chicago.
The 83-year-old Lewis formed the Ramsey Lewis Trio early in his career and won several Grammy awards. He has recorded more than 80 albums and written pieces for string ensemble and orchestra. He received the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Award in 2007.
Some of his hits include "The In Crowd," "Hang On Sloopy," and "Sun Goddess" which featured Earth, Wind & Fire.
"I'd like to thank all of you for recognizing me and I will continue to strive and try to make you proud," Ramsey said.
Among others honored Thursday will be Illinois Lieutenant Governor, Juliana Stratton along with Candice Payne. Payne is being recognized for her humanitarian efforts during the Arctic cold earlier this winter when she rented hotel rooms for the homeless. CBS 2's Suzanne Le Mignot was the event's emcee.
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