Special Program: Mary Chapin Carpenter Honored at the Newseum

"Spirit of Americana" Free Speech in Music Award

By Newseum staff

WASHINGTON — Grammy Award-winning singer Mary Chapin Carpenter received the "Spirit of Americana" Free Speech in Music Award at the sold-out "Freedom Sings" celebration April 27 at the Newseum's Walter and Leonore Annenberg Theater.

The award, sponsored by the Newseum's First Amendment Center and the Americana Music Association, recognizes artists who have used their work to raise awareness and promote free speech through their music and other efforts.

Carpenter performed several songs during the program, including "The Age of Miracles" and "Grand Central Station." Carpenter, who also participated in a one-on-one conversation about her music and career, said the 9/11 tragedy was the inspiration behind "Grand Central Station."

Judy Collins, Rodney Crowell and Eric Brace also performed.