At the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony last night, Alice Cooper, Neil Diamond, Tom Waits, Dr. John, and Darlene Love were honored for their contributions to music. A highlight of the evening came when Love, who sang lead vocals on classic "Wall of Sound" pop hits like "Today I Met the Boy I'm Gonna Marry" and "He's a Rebel", accepted her award:

Looking radiant in a black dress, Love seemed to be holding back tears as she walked to the podium. "This year, in July, I will turn 70 years old," she said. "This is the best gift that I could ever had. I have given over 50 years of my life and talent to the music industry. I am so thankful for the genius of Phil Spector for his recognition of my talent to be the main voice of his Wall of Sound."

Notice that she acknowledges record producer Phil Spector's "genius." A reference to Spector could raise eyebrows coming from anyone, considering his legacy outside the recording studio: In 2009, he was convicted of second-degree murder in the death of actress Lana Clarkson. But spoken by Love, this compliment is classy and poignant—though she thanks Spector for his "recognition" of her talent, for years he did not fully acknowledge her contributions to his records. In the 1960s, Spector refused to credit Love on several of the songs that featured her lead vocals, and she eventually had to sue him to receive the royalties she was due for her work with him.

But in praising rather than criticizing Spector, Love took the high road, basking in the glow of finally, truly being recognized.

Read the full story at Rolling Stone.