He is called the rock'n'roll president for his well-known love of music and has now been celebrated as such during a recorded centennial gala in Atlanta. Jimmy Carter will turn 100 years old on October 1, when the gala from Fox Theatre will also be broadcast on American TV.
Among those who sent in video greetings are Bob Dylan and comedian Jon Stewart. Among the artists present were Angélique Kidjo and the former president's namesake, Carlene Carter, whose mother June Carter, along with her husband Johnny Cash, once visited Jimmy Carter at the White House. June Carter wanted to describe them as related, said Carlene Carter, who saw the "Carter spark" in both her mother and the ex-president.
When people ask if we're related, I always say "I hope so".
Jimmy Carter has been receiving palliative care at home in Plains, Georgia, for over a year. According to his grandson Jason Carter, himself a politician and lawyer, his grandfather's body is weak, but his spirit is stronger than ever.
