[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 52 (Thursday, May 4, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4046-S4047]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HAL DAVID CELEBRATES HIS 85TH BIRTHDAY

 Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, May 25th marks the 85th birthday 
of an extraordinary American artist--Hal David. Hal is one of America's 
most prolific and beloved lyricists, and I congratulate him as he 
celebrates this birthday and a lifetime of memorable songs.
  Hal David's music has been entertaining millions for generations. His 
collaborations with Burt Bacharach on songs performed by Dionne Warwick 
are legendary. He has won the hearts of music lovers of all ages, and 
has earned 20 gold records, several Grammys, and an Academy Award.
  Over the years he has also earned the immense respect of his 
colleagues nationally and internationally. He was elected to the 
Songwriter's Hall of Fame and awarded their prestigious Johnny Mercer 
Award. He received the Grammy Trustee Award from the Academy of 
Recording Arts and Sciences, and the Ivor Novello Award from the 
British Performing Rights Society.
  He has written film scores including ``The April Fools'' and ``A 
House is Not a Home.'' His brilliant works for the theater include 
``Promises, Promises,'' which received a Grammy Award and a Tony Award 
nomination.
  Hal has been an inspiring advocate for young songwriters as well. He 
is a member of the board of directors of ASCAP and formerly served as 
its

[[Page S4047]]

President. He is also chairman of the board of the National Academy of 
Popular Music.
  It is worth pointing out, as we debate immigration reform, that Hal 
wrote the song, ``America Is,'' which was the official song of the 
Liberty Centennial campaign for the restoration of the Statue of 
Liberty and Ellis Island.
  Many of us are privileged to know Hal personally. He is a remarkable 
artist and an outstanding humanitarian. Hal wrote the famous ``What the 
World Needs Now is Love,'' and in so many ways, Hal has always expanded 
that love with his magnificent songs that have enriched all of our 
lives. I congratulate him on this special birthday, and I wish him many 
more beautiful years. As my mother would have said, ``Tell that nice 
young Hal David not to worry about turning 85--he won't slow down for 
another 10 or 15 years.'' May the raindrops keep falling on your head, 
Hal, and keep nourishing your special genius.

                          ____________________