Elton John gets France’s highest civilian honour

English singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer who has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums, Sir Elton John has received France’s highest civilian award, the Legion d’Honneur.

Through his own charity, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year, the singer has raised more than £300m for HIV prevention, education and support.

The French President described him as “an icon that knows how to set an example” – as he pinned on his award during a private ceremony, also attended by Sir Elton’s husband David Furnish and their two children.

Emmanuel Macron and Sir Elton addressed crowds gathered into the presidential Elysee Palace courtyard.

The 72-year-old said: “To receive this decoration, the day of the Fete de la Musique, makes it even more special.”

He said the fight against Aids reminds him “each day of the extraordinary power of the human spirit”.

He added: “It is this magical human spirit that I will carry with me as a proud member of the Legion of Honour.”

Sir Elton Hercules John CBE is an English singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer. He has worked with lyricist Bernie Taupin since 1967; they have collaborated on more than 30 albums. John has sold more than 300 million records, making him one of the world’s best-selling music artists.