The King of Country Music receives top honor in Washington D.C. | Music City Minute
Dec 9, 2025, 1:41 PM
Over the weekend, artists, across several disciplines, gathered in the oval office where they were recognized as Kennedy Center Honorees. During a speech preceding the medallion ceremony, the President called the class of 2025 “icons” that are the very best in arts and culture who have uplifted, inspired and unified millions. First in line to receive his medallion was George Strait, who was also complimented on his “good hair” by the Commander in Chief after removing his signature hat. The eclectic group of fellow honorees included Sylvester Stallone, the band KISS, Gloria Gaynor and actor/comedian Michael Crawford. The weekend long festivities were capped off with a dinner as well as the Kennedy Center Honors Program, which was taped and will air on CBS and Paramount+ later this month. Needless to say, the “The King” is in good company as far as high-profile country artists who are also bona fide Kennedy Center Honorees, such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, “The Possum” George Jones, Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard and Reba McEntire.
I’m Sheena, and that’s your Music City Minute.
