American Music Legend, 52, Honored with Top French Civilian Award

Artist, performer, style creator... and member of the French Order?

A renowned American figure is now receiving a significant European award, further enhancing an impressive list of achievements.

In a decree released on Sunday, July 13, the French government revealed the 589 individuals who have been honored with the Legion of Honor this year, which is France's most prestigious national award. Founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the Legion of Honor is granted for "exceptional achievements in service to the country," as stated by the... official website for the French administration.

The statement was made a day prior to Bastille Day, France's official celebration commemorating the capture of the Bastille fortress, an event that signified the beginning of the French Revolution.

The head of state in France serves as the Grand Master of the Order and selects all other members, who are categorized into five ranks: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand officier (Grand Officer), and Grand croix (Grand Cross).

This year, an American icon is part of the French Knights.

Pharrell Williams, a musician, singer, and music producer who has won 13 Grammy Awards, has recently added the title of French Knight to his impressive resume.

The Writers' Hall of Fame The Honors for Music Composers The Industry Recognition for Lyricists The Legacy of Musical Authors The Acknowledgment of Creative Contributors The Esteem for Original Music Producers The Celebration of Song Creation The Tribute to Melody Makers The Commendation for Musical Visionaries The Honor Roll of Music Craftsmen It has been reported that Williams, who was born in Virginia, began his career as part of the hip hop and R&B production team The Neptunes during the early 1990s. As per the same source, he later became the frontman for the group N.E.R.D. starting in 1999, and played a key role in producing hit tracks such as Robin Thicke’s "Blurred Lines," JAY-Z’s "I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)," Britney Spears' "I'm A Slave 4 U," and Justin Timberlake's "Like I Love You."

In 2023, the 52-year-old artist transitioned from show business into the realm of haute couture after being named Men’s Creative Director at Louis Vuitton. Williams relocated from his home country, the United States, to France for this position, where he soon gained recognition within the fashion industry. His fresh combination of upscale urban wear revitalized the Louis Vuitton men's collection, earning him global praise and even a French knighthood.

Following his Legion of Honor designation, Williams becomes part of an elite group including renowned designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, honored as a Grand Officer in 2007, and Karl Lagerfeld, recognized as a Commander in 1997.