Al Franken News

Even before Barack Obama was sworn in as Illinois' newest U.S. senator this year, the Chicago Democrat was known for his oratory. His delivery of the keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention was proof of that.

Now, his talents have been recognized again. Obama was nominated on Thursday for a Grammy Award, an honor usually associated with musicians, singers and songwriters.

For a politician, Obama couldn't have been nominated in a more prized category: Best Spoken Word Album.

The nomination is for his readings of his autobiographical "Dreams From My Father," which was first published in 1995 but became a best seller in the last year as Obama became a rising political star.

"While the nomination is flattering, there are no plans for a concert or world tour," Obama spokesman Julian Green said. "And there is no truth to the rumor that the senator will now go by the name 'The Artist, formerly known as Barack Obama.'"

Obama's competitors for the Grammy are: Garrison Keillor, "The Adventures of Guy Noir"; Al Franken, "The Al Franken Show Party Album"; Sean Penn, "Chronicles — Volume One" (Bob Dylan); and George Carlin, "When Will Jesus Bring The Pork Chops?"

If Obama wins the award, he won't be the only politician to have the trophy.

Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., while she served as first lady, won a Grammy in 1997 for her spoken word album, "It Takes a Village." Former President Bill Clinton also has won one for his reading of his autobiography, "My Life."

The Grammys will be handed out in Los Angeles on Feb. 8.

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On the Net:

http://www.grammy.com