Library of Congress honours Green Day, The Notorious B.I.G., ABBA, and more in National Recording Registry

(From left) ABBA, Notorious B.I.G., Green-Day and Johnny Mathis have been honoured by Library of Congress. (Photo: X)

The Library of Congress recently announced its selections for the National Recording Registry, showcasing a diverse range of musical talents and iconic recordings that have left an indelible mark on American culture. Among the esteemed artists and albums included in this prestigious list are Green Day, The Notorious B.I.G., ABBA, and many more.

Green Day's groundbreaking album 'Dookie', which catapulted the punk rock band to mainstream success, has been selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry. Released in 1994, 'Dookie' was a commercial and critical success, featuring hits like 'Basket Case' and 'When I Come Around'. The album's inclusion in the registry highlights its cultural significance and enduring impact on the music industry.

Joining Green Day in the National Recording Registry is the late rapper The Notorious B.I.G., whose album 'Life After Death' has been selected for preservation. Released just weeks after his tragic death in 1997, 'Life After Death' is considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time, featuring hits like 'Hypnotize' and 'Mo Money Mo Problems'. The album's inclusion in the registry honours The Notorious B.I.G.'s lasting legacy and influence on the rap genre.

In addition to Green Day and The Notorious B.I.G., Swedish pop group ABBA has also been selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry. ABBA's hit song 'Dancing Queen', released in 1976, is among the recordings chosen for its cultural significance and enduring popularity. Known for their catchy melodies and infectious beats, ABBA remains one of the most beloved and influential pop acts of all time.

Among 25 notable selections for the National Recording Registry are recordings by pioneering jazz musician Sun Ra, country music legend Johnny Cash, and iconic singer-songwriter Linda Ronstadt. These diverse recordings represent a wide range of musical genres and styles, showcasing the rich and vibrant tapestry of American music.

The National Recording Registry serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite people from all walks of life. By preserving these iconic recordings for future generations, the Library of Congress ensures that their cultural significance will be celebrated and appreciated for years to come.

Among other songs that have been included are:

Clarinet Marmalade by Lt. James Reese Europe’s 369th U.S. Infantry Band (1919)

Kauhavan Polkka by Viola Turpeinen and John Rosendahl (1928)

Wisconsin Folksong Collection (1937–1946)

Rose Room by Benny Goodman Sextet with Charlie Christian (1939)

Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Gene Autry (1949)

Tennessee Waltz by Patti Page (1950)

Rocket ‘88’ by Jackie Brenston and His Delta Cats (1951)

Catch a Falling Star / Magic Moments by Perry Como (1957)

Chances Are by Johnny Mathis (1957)

The Sidewinder by Lee Morgan (1964)

Surrealistic Pillow by Jefferson Airplane (1967)

Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers (1971)

This is a Recording by Lily Tomlin (1971)