Annie Lennox received the Music Industry Trust Award last night.
The singer was given the accolade in celebration of for her contribution to British music at the event in London, as well as her charity work.
She said: "I'm very touched and honoured to receive this award. Music has given me a lifetime of experiences and opportunities that I would never have dreamed possible, and I feel very privileged to have been able to become an artist and communicator, especially as a woman."
Those who paid tribute to the 58-year-old singer - who has sold over 80 million records during her career and received eight BRIT Awards, four Ivor Novello Awards and four Grammys - included Sir Elton John, Adele, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Elton said in a recorded video message: "It is so well deserved and not only for your extraordinary contribution to music and songwriting but also for your outstanding and tireless work as an HIV and AIDS activist and supporter of woman's rights."
Adele wrote her tribute in the evening's programme, saying: "So many of her songs have been the soundtrack to my life. Annie Lennox has been a constant part of my life. An example of a brilliant talent that exudes excellence and influence on everyone."
Over 1,000 people attended the Music Industry Trust fundraising dinner where Annie was honoured, with proceeds raised going to the Nordoff Robbins music therapy charity and the BRIT Trust.
Previous winners of the Music Industry Trust Award include Elton, Gary Barlow and the late John Barry.
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