WASHINGTON (AP) — Paul Simon, one of Jill Biden ‘s favorite musicians, will sing at this week’s White House state dinner for Japan.
The first lady chose the singer-songwriter as a special tribute for Japan’s prime minister, Fumio Kishida, because he’s also an admirer of Simon’s work, the White House said Tuesday.
President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill, are hosting Kishida and his wife, Yuko, on Wednesday during the prime minister’s official visit to the United States. The visit includes the glitz and glamour of a state dinner, a high diplomatic honor that the U.S. reserves for its closest allies.
Jill Biden was announcing the menu, decor and other details at a media preview later Tuesday.
Simon’s career spans six decades, including performing as part of a duo with his childhood friend Art Garfunkel. The 82-year-old New Jersey native has earned numerous accolades, including multiple Grammys and a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Also lined up to entertain guests after dinner on Wednesday are “The President’s Own” Marine Band Chamber Orchestra, the Army Rolling Strings and the Air Force Strings.
Darlene Superville, The Associated Press
