Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-09-21

HONORING STEVE BASSETT FOR 60 YEARS OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO VIRGINIA MUSIC

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On 2026-09-21, Representative Jennifer L. McClellan (D-VA-4) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING STEVE BASSETT FOR 60 YEARS OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO VIRGINIA MUSIC" in the House.

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HONORING STEVE BASSETT FOR 60 YEARS OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO VIRGINIA MUSIC

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 149 (Monday, September 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 149 (Monday, September 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E957-E958] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING STEVE BASSETT FOR 60 YEARS OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO VIRGINIA MUSIC ______ HON. JENNIFER L. McCLELLAN of virginia in the house of representatives Monday, September 21, 2026 Ms. McCLELLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steve Bassett, an accomplished musician, songwriter and proud Virginian, who for 60 years has made extraordinary contributions to the Commonwealth's musical heritage. For six decades, Steve has helped shape Virginia's musical heritage through his songwriting, performances and commitment to the arts. His career has taken him to stages across Virginia and beyond, sharing music that reflects the people, places and spirit of the Commonwealth. Among Steve's most enduring contributions is ``Sweet Virginia Breeze,'' which he co-wrote with Robbin Thompson. Beloved by generations of Virginians, the song celebrates the [[Page E958]] natural beauty and history that define our Commonwealth. In 2015, the Virginia General Assembly designated ``Sweet Virginia Breeze'' as Virginia's official popular state song, ensuring that Steve's contribution to Virginia's musical legacy will endure for generations to come. On October 10, 2026, friends, fellow musicians, and members of the community will gather at the Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education in Chester, Virginia, for ``Steve Bassett: 60 Years in Music.'' The celebration will look back on Steve's remarkable career through music and storytelling while also looking ahead by highlighting the next generation of Virginia artists. Steve's legacy extends beyond any single song or performance. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the important role artists play in telling the stories of our communities, preserving our shared culture and bringing people together. His six decades of artistry represent an extraordinary contribution to Virginia's rich musical tradition. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Steve Bassett on 60 years in music and thanking him for his lasting contributions to the arts and cultural heritage of the Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish him continued success as he celebrates this remarkable milestone. ____________________

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HONORING STEVE BASSETT FOR 60 YEARS OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO VIRGINIA MUSIC Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 149 (Monday, September 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 149 (Monday, September 21, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E957-E958] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING STEVE BASSETT FOR 60 YEARS OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO VIRGINIA MUSIC ______ HON. JENNIFER L. McCLELLAN of virginia in the house of representatives Monday, September 21, 2026 Ms. McCLELLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steve Bassett, an accomplished musician, songwriter and proud Virginian, who for 60 years has made extraordinary contributions to the Commonwealth's musical heritage. For six decades, Steve has helped shape Virginia's musical heritage through his songwriting, performances and commitment to the arts. His career has taken him to stages across Virginia and beyond, sharing music that reflects the people, places and spirit of the Commonwealth. Among Steve's most enduring contributions is ``Sweet Virginia Breeze,'' which he co-wrote with Robbin Thompson. Beloved by generations of Virginians, the song celebrates the [[Page E958]] natural beauty and history that define our Commonwealth. In 2015, the Virginia General Assembly designated ``Sweet Virginia Breeze'' as Virginia's official popular state song, ensuring that Steve's contribution to Virginia's musical legacy will endure for generations to come. On October 10, 2026, friends, fellow musicians, and members of the community will gather at the Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education in Chester, Virginia, for ``Steve Bassett: 60 Years in Music.'' The celebration will look back on Steve's remarkable career through music and storytelling while also looking ahead by highlighting the next generation of Virginia artists. Steve's legacy extends beyond any single song or performance. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the important role artists play in telling the stories of our communities, preserving our shared culture and bringing people together. His six decades of artistry represent an extraordinary contribution to Virginia's rich musical tradition. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Steve Bassett on 60 years in music and thanking him for his lasting contributions to the arts and cultural heritage of the Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish him continued success as he celebrates this remarkable milestone. ____________________