In October, The Woody Guthrie Center presented the Woody Guthrie Prize to Irish rock group U2 for their longstanding commitment to social change. Considered one of the most important voices in music, U2 accepted the prize from Woody Guthrie’s Granddaughter Anna Canoni at the historic Cains Ballroom.

As Rolling Stone reported, U2 took the opportunity to promote positive change around the world.  Before sitting down to speak with the iconic T Bone Burnett, Bono and The Edge surprised the audience with a forty-five minute acoustic set.

The Woody Guthrie Prize is given annually to an artist who best exemplifies Woody Guthrie’s spirit and work by speaking for the less fortunate through music, film, literature, dance or other art forms and serving as a positive force for social change. 

Previous awardees include Tom Morello, Pussy Riot, Bruce Springsteen, Joan Baez, Mavis Staples and more. 

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The history-making event was covered by national outlets, including Rolling Stone, Billboard, NME and more, proving the magnetic reach of Woody Guthrie’s message and influence. 

Learn more about how the Woody Guthrie Center is honoring the folk singer’s legacy. 

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