On the 26th of August 2014, Chuck Berry received the esteemed Polar Music Prize; a prestigious award that is often regarded to be the musical equivalent of the Nobel Prize. Rolling Stones Guitarist Keith Richards led a wave of tributes for the reputable guitarist by recording an intimate video message during the ceremony stating his admiration for Berry, and affirming his musical influence within the Rock ‘N’ Roll fraternity.
“I ate him basically, I mean I breathed him. It wasn’t just food, he was the air I breathed for many years when I was learning guitar and trying to figure out how you could be such an all-rounder”, said Richards. Although the 87-year-old guitarist was not able to travel to Sweden to receive his award due to concerns over his health, Dave Edmunds collected the award and spoke on his behalf. “My heart is in Sweden… I understand what a great honour it is to be a recipient. I am sorry that I am unable to travel and receive this personally… Thank you for this overwhelming award“, said Berry.
#Peace.Love.ChuckBerry
