America To Receive Hollywood WoF Star

Originally a trio consisting of Gerry Beckley, Dewey Bunnell and Dan Peek, America was all over the radio during the 1970s with hits such as “Sister Golden Hair,” “I Need You,” “Ventura Highway” and “Tin Man.” Peek left the band in 1977 but Beckley and Bunnell have been keeping the flame alive to this day by reminding long-time fans why America still matters as well as introducing their classic tunes to new generations.

Now America is getting its own star on Hollywood’s Walk Of Fame with a ceremony being planned for 2012 to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the band receiving its “Best New Artist” Grammy.

“We are truly humbled and honored to be chosen to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame for the year 2012,” Bunnell and Beckley said in a statement, presumably in perfect two-part harmony. “Thank you to the Hollywood Chamber Of Commerce for this wonderful gesture. We are truly thrilled that America has been chosen to be represented with this prestigious honor.”

Bunnell and Beckley are celebrating America’s 40th anniversary with the upcoming release of Back Pages. The album features the band playing their interpretations of songs by folks such as Bob Dylan, Buffalo Springfield, Mark Knopfler, Gin Blossoms, Simon & Garfunkel, Beach Boys, Jimmy Webb, Fountains Of Wayne, New Radicals and others. Back Pages is scheduled to drop July 26 on Entertainment One Music.

There are also plenty of chances to see America in action on the band’s 40th anniversary tour. Upcoming shows include tonight’s performance in Livermore, Calif.; June 24 in Jacksonville, Ore., at the Britt Pavilion; and June 25 in Manson, Wash., at the Mill Bay Casino. Check out America’s official website for more information.