The Grammys Recognize Neil Young for His "Heart of Gold!"

At long last, singer-songwriter extraordinaire Neil Young will be recognized by the Grammy Awards. The "Heart of Gold" hitmaker has been named the 2010 MusiCares person of the year. The Recording Academy and MusiCares Foundation present the award in recognition of artistic accomplishments as well as philanthropic work.

Young has long been an advocate for environmental issues and is the co-Founder of Farm Aid as well as co-organizer along with his wife Pegi of the annual Bridge School Benefit which raises funds for children with developmental disorders.

In announcing the award, Recording Academy president Neil Portnow stated in a release: "It is an honor to celebrate the extraordinary legacy of Neil Young at our 20th annual MusiCares Person of the Year tribute,"

"Neil has set a standard of artistic integrity and iconoclastic creativity for more than four decades, and his achievements have been matched by his unwavering humanitarianism."

"He is a shining example of how music people offer their creative gifts to the world, and how they also give back through their commitments to charitable endeavors."

The 61-year-old former Winnipeger is the first Canadian to ever receive the honor. He follows in the lofty footsteps of past winners such as Bono, Quincy Jones, Elton John and Aretha Franklin.

Young is best known for such diverse solo hits such as Old Man, Heart of Gold, Cinnamon Girl, and Rockin' in the Free World as well as for his work with the legendary Buffalo Springfield and super group Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young.

Neil Young has received numerous awards and nominations. He was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1982 and has been inducted into the US Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice: first in 1995 for his solo work and again in 1997 as a member of Buffalo Springfield.

The off and on again member of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young enviably ranks among the top 40 of no less than 3 of Rolling Stone Magazine's greatest lists including 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, 100 Greatest Artists of All Time and 100 Greatest Singers of All Time

The Canadian superstar will be honored at a dinner and concert in Los Angeles on Jan. 29, two days before the 52nd annual Grammys.

The Grammys will be held on Jan. 29, 2010 in Los Angeles.

Rob Rheubottom