The annual gala at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts features personalized tributes with performances and testimonials from fellow artists.

Bonnie Raitt was hailed as 'all red hair and no B.S.' during the Kennedy Center Honors, which also feted Francis Ford Coppola, Arturo Sandoval and the Grateful Dead.

Our awards editor Paul Grein writes about why key members of groups and duos should be recognized by the prestigious honors, whether they’re still living or have taken their final earthly bows.