Paul McCartney in US for major music award
Sir Paul McCartney has fielded a mix of questions at a press conference in Washington DC.
The former Beatle, who turns 68 later this month, is set to receive The Library of Congress' Gershwin Prize for Popular Song in a special tribute concert in the East Room of the White House.
The prize celebrates McCartney's decades-long music that spans from his years with The Beatles to his current solo output.
The concert will feature a tribute by major stars, many of whom will perform the songs that propelled McCartney to legendary status in music around the world.
The line-up of stars include Stevie Wonder, Faith Hill, Jonas Brothers, Dave Grohl, Elvis Costello, Corinne Bailey Rae and remarks by Jerry Seinfeld.
When asked about the BP oil spill, McCartney said it was a "disgrace" and "terrible".
But he did express his excitement and enthusiasm to perform in front of US President Barack Obama. He said: "I am a big fan. He's a great guy-- so, lay off him. He's doing great."
Named to honour the songwriting team of brothers George and Ira Gershwin, the prize "recognises musicians whose careers reflect a lifetime achievement in promoting song as a vehicle of artistic expression and cultural understanding," the library said in a statement.
The Gershwin Prize for Popular Songs was created by the Library of Congress to honour artists whose creative output transcends distinction between musical styles and idioms, bringing diverse listeners together and fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.
