Musician, producer, and creative director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear line, Pharrell Williams, has been awarded one of France’s highest honors, the Légion d’Honneur. The 52-year-old artist was awarded the title of Chevalier for his “exceptional contribution to culture and society.”
The ceremony took place at the Élysée Palace during the Bastille Day celebrations. The official statement said that Williams “significantly enhanced France’s cultural authority among young people,” WWD reports.
Along with Pharrell, the honorary award was also presented to singer Sylvie Vartan, actress Léa Drucker, and writer Marc Levy.
The Legion of Honor is France’s most prestigious civilian award, established by Napoleon in 1802. Nelson Mandela, Bob Dylan, and Steven Spielberg have also been honored with this award.