Elton John receives first-ever Brits Icon Award

Elton John received the first-ever Brits Icon Awards Monday night at the Palladium in London for his "lasting impact" on U.K. culture.

According to BBC News, Rod Stewart presented John with the honor, joking that his friend is "the second-best rock singer ever."

The 66-year-old singer, who recently underwent surgery for appendecitis, said he was "flattered" by the award, dedicating it to his longtime writing partner Bernie Taupin, "who I wouldn't be here without." John also thanked his fans and added, "I can think of a couple of people who might have deserved it more than me."

John performed several songs, too, including "Your Son," "Tiny Dancer" and the new track, "Home Again," which will appear on his new album, "The Diving Board," due out Sept. 24. Stewart joined in on the closing number, "Sad Songs (Say So Much)."

Also on hand to celebrate were Elizabeth Hurley and James Blunt, and there were video messages from Bill Clinton, Ringo Starr and Billie Jean King.