Kris Kristofferson, Randy Newman Noted For Lyrics

Kris Kristofferson and Randy Newman have been honored at a Massachusetts awards ceremony recognizing the lyrics of contemporary songwriters.

Photo: Steven Senne/AP
Song Lyrics of Literary Excellence Award ceremonies at the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum in Boston.

Kristofferson is best known for country hits including “Me and Bobby McGee,” ‘‘For the Good Times” and “Help Me Make It Through the Night.”

Newman is known for songs with biting wit including the hit “Short People” and an album taking on Southern racism and Northern hypocrisy. He scored dozens of films including “Toy Story” and “A Bug’s Life.”

The Song Lyrics of Literary Excellence awards were established by PEN New England in 2012. The ceremony occurred Monday at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library.

Photo: Steven Senne/AP
Elvis Costello places a Song Lyrics of Literary Excellence Award around the neck of Randy Newman at the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum in Boston.

Honorees are chosen by a committee that includes Bono, Rosanne Cash, Elvis Costello, Smokey Robinson and Paul Simon.

The first awards were given to Chuck Berry and Leonard Cohen.

Tags