Bob Dylan receives France’s highest honor for his music
U.S. singer Bob Dylan in March 1966 in New York.
Bob Dylan has received France's highest honor for his cultural contribution to that country and the world.
Culture Minister Aurelie Filippetti said that he was a hero for young people who wanted independence and justice.
The minister was enthusiastic in her praise, saying that Dylan's music spoke to the heart of the French people.
The BBC said that Dylan has always shied away from being a spokesperson for causes.
Being presented with the award at the small ceremony in Paris he said that he was "proud and grateful." He, however, looked uncomfortable during the ceremony.
Dylan is scheduled to play three concerts in Paris this week.
More from GlobalPost: Medal of Freedom: Madeline Albright, Bob Dylan among this year's recipients
The award for Dylan was temporarily blocked earlier this year after a French army general Jean-Louis Georgelin, said that the musician's use of cannabis and his anti-war politics were concerning.
The committee reconsidered their decision this spring.
Dylan was recently inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
Last year, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States.
The French Legion of Honor was established by Napoleon and is given to those who have served France through culture, politics, and medicine, among other causes.