Willie Nelson to Receive an Honorary Doctorate From the Berklee College of Music

It seems there's no slowing Willie Nelson down these days. The American icon and country music legend continues to churn out music, perform live and now, he's an honorary scholar. Nelson will be the recipient of an honorary doctor of music degree from the Berklee College of Music, one of the most prestigious music schools in the world.

Willie will be bestowed the honor along with legendary singer/songwriter Carole King and Annie Lennox The trio will be presented with honorary degrees at the school's commencement ceremony on May 11th. Each recipient will be recognized for their achievements and influence in music and for their enduring achievements and contributions to American and international culture. Past recipients of this award have included country pioneer Loretta Lynn and motown legend Smokey Robinson.

Nelson is a notoriously busy person, but seems to have a lot on his plate this year, even by his standards. He is set to release a new CD, 'Let's Face the Music and Dance' a mere two weeks before his 80th birthday, and has been announced as the headliner for the 2013 Taste of Country Music Festival.

Ordinarily, I don't think much of honorary degrees being given to artists and entertainers, but in this case, I'm willing to make an exception. Like few before him, Willie Nelson is more than just a singer/songwriter, and more than just an entertainer. He's an American treasure, and a true character for the ages, whose legacy will be felt for decades to come.