The Lifetime Achievement Award

This is a special award given by the Recording Academy to performers who have, over the span of their lifetime, made outstanding artistic achievements and contributions in the field of recording. Though awarded to Bing Crosby in 1962, the Lifetime Achievement Award did not become an established part of the GRAMMY Awards until 1965. Prior to 1972, this award was also given out to non-performers. The award is determined by a vote of the Recording Academy's National Trustees.