Jenny Lewis, Pioneer Woman

The city behind them
Originally uploaded by CD-13.

Every year, the Commission on the Status of Women and the City Council bring one woman from each of the city's 15 council districts for a special presentation honoring "outstanding community service and accomplishments in the areas of education, equal rights, professional opportunities, arts, sciences and/or humanitarian contributions that continue to expand opportunities for generations to come."

I was proud to bring to council chambers singer/songwriter Jenny Lewis, the lead singer of Rilo Kiley who has a brilliant solo career to her name as well. Jenny is a third-generation Angeleno and was well known locally before her career took off. She dedicated her award, as she put it, "to all of my neighbors who, for all these years put up with the musical racket coming from my tiny apartment in Silver Lake."

Of course, that's a racket heard the world over. The qualities in her art that have led to her global success and critical celebration have also helped place the Silver Lake and Echo Park musical scenes on the leading edge of 21st-century song. Her position as one of America’s finest singer/songwriters reflects not only her own prodigious talent but the wealth of artistry in the community she calls home.

Or, in fewer words: she writes great songs, she's got a beautiful voice, and I love the 13th Council District. (Does that make me a nerd?)

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