One of the most influential country stars in the history of American music, Hank Williams, was awarded a Pulitzer Prize citation. The Pulitzer board gave the singer the award for his lifetime achievement, based on a survey of experts in popular music.
The citation notes Hank’s ‘craftsmanship as a songwriter’ and his “pivotal role in transforming country music into a major music and cultural force in American life.” The other recent special citation recipients include Bob Dylan, Thelonious Monk, and John Coltrane.
Williams passed away on January 1, 1953 at the age of 29, cutting his career way short. His hits such as “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” Cold Cold Heart” and “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” have been covered by hundreds of artists in all different types of genres.
