Elton and Bernie Taupin received, on 4 November, 2002 the Music Industry Trusts Award for a 35-year collaboration which has produced classics like Candle In The Wind and Your Song.
Actor Kevin Spacey flew in from the US to present them with the award at a star-studded charity dinner in London.
The pair watched a video tribute from some of the biggest names in music, including songwriting legend Burt Bacharach.
Bacharach said: “You’ve written magnificent songs, really magnificent. You dazzle me sometimes with the speed with which you write them. It takes my breath away.”
Bono, lead singer of Irish band U2 said: “How many partnerships can you put up there with Lennon and McCartney? Not many, maybe only a few. Certainly Elton John and Bernie Taupin.” ![](http://localhost/ejw/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/award2_2002.jpg)
Other stars who paid tribute to the duo included Sir Paul McCartney, George Michael, Sting, Lionel Richie, Brian Wilson and Carole King.
Among the video messages from the stars was a poignant tribute from Lonnie Donegan, which was recorded only four days ago.
In it Donegan said: “I’ve spent many hours with Elton – I’ve not spent enough time with Bernie – so if you see me advertised at your local do pop round and say hello, I would love that.”
Sir Elton only learned of Donegan’s death when he arrived at the Awards dinner. He said: “I had the pleasure of playing on some of his albums and I’m very, very sad tonight. He was a great influence and a terrific bloke, so God Bless you Lonnie.”