McCartney gets 'ultimate accolade' at MTV Awards
Paul McCartney was named the “Ultimate Legend” at a prestigious awards ceremony in in his home city.
The former Beatle was given the one off honour by Bono at the star-studded MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) ceremony in Liverpool last night.
Eighties pop star Rick Astley was another winner, picking up the viewer’s vote in the Best Act Ever category.
The show, hosted by Katy Perry, saw barnstorming performances from Pink, Beyonce, Kanye West and Estelle.
Take That mesmerised the audience with an exclusive first – an atmospheric performance of their new single 'Greatest Day'.
Britney Spears picked up the Album Of The Year award for 'Blackout' and also won the Act of 2008 title.
Another double winner was LA rock band 30 Seconds to Mars who won the Rock Out category and the Video Star award.
Kanye West, winner of the Ultimate Urban award, gave a barnstorming performance of 'Love Lockdown' before being joined on stage by British hip hop singer Estelle, 28, for their international hit 'American Boy'.
Britain’s best hopes of winning an award - Duffy, who was nominated in three categories, and Leona Lewis, who was nominated in two - both left empty handed.
During the course of the night many of the stars hailed the election of Barack Obama to the US Presidency.
Collecting his award, McCartney said: “Thanks to all my family, to all you for coming along, to everyone in Great Britain, to everyone in America for voting in Mr Obama.”
Astley, who did not attend the event, said in a statement: “I am honoured that my fans worked so hard to help me win Best Act Ever at the 2008 MTV Europe Music Awards.
“This is the first time I have been nominated for the EMAs and I would like to thank everyone who voted for me.”
Astley’s 1987 hit 'Never Gonna Give You Up' has become an internet sensation due to “Rickrolling” whereby internet users click onto an enticing link which takes them to the video.
