For James Taylor--ready to release a new album and head out on tour--it was a wonderful, albeit odd, night.

Some of the biggest names in music kicked off Grammy week by gathering at the Los Angeles Convention Center Monday night for a dinner and tribute concert to honor the 57-year-old Taylor as MusiCares Person of the Year.

The all-star lineup of attendees and performers included Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Paul Simon, Neil Young, Brian Wilson, Bonnie Raitt, Sheryl Crow, Carole King, Jackson Browne, David Crosby, the Dixie Chicks, Randy Newman, Dr. John, Alison Krauss, Taj Mahal, and India Arie.

"I can't thank you enough for showing up. It's not the same without you," Taylor said toward the conclusion of the event. "It's strange to be at an event like this and still be alive. It's very moving, very terrifying, and very wonderful to hear these songs done live."

Taylor was picked for the award for his accomplishments as a musician and for his philanthropic efforts, including his support of the Natural Resources Defense Council and juvenile diabetes research.

MusiCares, established by the Recording Academy, provides assistance to musicians in times of need, having helped pledge $1 million for those in the music industry affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

The stars raided Taylor's abundant catalog, with Springsteen performing "Millworker," Sting playing "Close Your Eyes," and Crow, Crosby, and Browne teaming up on "Mexico."

"Everyone has been telling these great James Taylor stories, and nothing for me says it better than this song," Carole King said, launching into "You've Got a Friend."

Taylor joined her at the piano, and they duetted on the final chorus of the song that was an individual hit for both of them.

But despite the honor usually reserved for the retired or deceased, Taylor keeps working.

He's set to release a follow-up to 2002’s October Road in March and then will head out on a solo tour.

It will be the first time he's gone out on the road alone in years.

Here are Taylor's tour dates:

March 3 Charleston, SC North Charleston Performing Arts Center

March 4 Columbus, GA RiverCenter

March 6 Clearwater, FL Ruth Eckerd Hall

March 7 Ft. Lauderdale, FL Broward Center for the Performing Arts

March 9 Ft. Meyers, FL Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall

March 10 Melbourne, FL King Center

March 12 Birmingham, AL Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex

March 13 Greenville, SC Peace Center for the Performing Arts