U2's Bono Awarded France's Order of Arts and Letters [PHOTOS]: 'One' Singer Given Highest Cultural Honor in Paris for Music & Charity Work

Bono, the singer of the iconic Irish rock n' roll band U2, just received France's highest cultural honor this week. The 53-year-old musician is now a Commander of Arts and Letters in France, in honor of his in recognition of his contributions to the world of music and the arts as well as his involvement with charity. Bono was awarded this title on Tuesday and was joined by his wife Ali Hewson and his daughter Eve for the ceremony.

"It is unspeakably special to receive an award from France for being an artist," Bono said after receiving the honor. The singer also lives part-time outside of Nice in the south of France.

"This is a huge honor for me, but really it belongs to the band. I've got the biggest mouth and the loudest voice, but the music we make comes from each other," he said, honoring his band U2.

"Beyond notes and beyond words, you committed yourself and dedicated your fame and career to wage some of the greatest wars of our time. Not for charity's sake but in the name of justice," said Culture minister Aurelie Filippetti, drawing attention to Bono's extensive philanthropic work on behalf of Africa through his ONE charity.

Bono, who in 2007 was made an honorary Knight of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II, joins a long list of cultural icons to be awarded this French cultural honor. Other recipients include David Bowie, Michael Caine, Sean Connery and Bruce Willis (who received the honor back in February).