Neil Portnow, president and CEO of the Recording Academy, issued a tribute statement late Friday. "Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Phil Everly was part of one of the most prominent vocal duos of the rock era. Joined by his brother Don in the Everly Brothers, the duo’s superb and flawless harmonies influenced some of music’s most iconic acts, including the Beach Boys and the Beatles. Their profound impact on pop and rock music is still heard today, and will continue to live on in future generations. Phil Everly was a groundbreaking artist, and he leaves an indelible and timeless mark on music and our industry. Our sincerest condolences go out to his family, friends and those who were inspired by his outstanding talent."
The Everly Brothers' impact exceeds even their fame. They were a big influence on John Lennon and Paul McCartney — who called themselves the Foreverly Brothers early on — and, of course, on Simon and Garfunkel. When we were kids, Artie and I got our rock & roll chops from the Everlys. Later, as Simon and Garfunkel, we put "Bye Bye Love" on Bridge Over Troubled Water, and much later, Phil and Don both sang on the song "Graceland."
Those who were musicians,
heads of Levite families,
stayed in the
rooms of the temple
and were exempt from other duties
because they were
responsible
for the work day and night.
