President Biden honored Sir Elton John with the National Humanities Medal Friday following a performance by the musician on the South Lawn of the White House.
“It is my great honour, and I say this sincerely, to present the National Medal of Humanities to Sir Elton John,” Biden said to a visibly shocked John and cheers from the audience.
The honor went to the British music icon “for stirring our souls with his powerful voice and one of the defining songbooks of all time. An enduring icon and defender with absolute courage, who found purpose in challenging convention, breaking stigma, and advancing the simple truth – that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect,” according to the quote.
John, who wept as the President placed the medal around his neck, said: “I am never flabbergasted, but I am flabbergasted, humbled and honored by this incredible award from the United States of America.”
“America’s kindness to me as a musician is unparalleled, but in the war against AIDS and HIV, it’s even greater,” the musician said before choking and adding: “I’m really moved about this.”
John had been invited to perform at the White House for a concert called “A Night When Hope and History Rhyme” because of his advocacy in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The performer received a standing ovation after performing several of his hits, including “Your Song”, “Rocket Man” and “Tiny Dancer”.
Among the 2,000 guests at the concert were Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and civil rights activist Ruby Bridges.