Even some of those taking part had a hard time believing their luck. "I'm from frickin' Levittown," marveled Long Island, N.Y.-bred honoree Joel, 49. "This is not supposed to happen to people like me!" U2's Bono told PEOPLE he was awed to introduce Springsteen, 49: "I heard his records when I was 14 years old, and I still feel 14 years old when I hear him."
Despite the good vibes, the evening had its somber moments. Tributes were heartfelt for inductees Dusty Springfield and Charles Brown, both of whom died recently, and for Curtis Mayfield, 56, who couldn't attend because of poor health. And the event marked Paul McCartney's first public performance since the death of his wife, Linda, last April. "It's brilliant-stroke-sad, because I would like my baby to share this with me," he said.
Once the speeches ended, the music kicked in. Springsteen and his old E Street Band played three vintage tunes, including "The Promised Land": and Clapton, Midler, Hill, Robbie Robertson, D'Angelo and the honored Staple Singers crowded the stage for an impromptu jam session. Finally, McCartney led everyone in a rousing rendition of the Beatles' "Let It Be." "It's late," the visibly moved and weary Sir Paul, 56, declared after the last strains died away after midnight. "It's time to go home."
Julie K.L. Dam
Sue Miller and Joseph V. Tirella in New York City
- Contributors:
- Sue Miller,
- Joseph V. Tirella.
Saved by the Bell Reunion
The hookups, the meltdowns, the memoires
The case reveals what was really going on what they think of each other now!
