Former Beatle Paul McCartney has been honoured with one of the United States’ highest artistic recognitions: the Library of Congress’ Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.

The knighted, soon to be 68-year-old “Yesterday” singer was the guest of honour at a concert last night, held at the White House. President Obama celebrated the Liverpool musician’s achievements, honouring McCartney alongside other famous faces who were also paying tribute, including Stevie Wonder, the Jonas Brothers, Herbie Hancock and Elvis Costello.

McCartney’s latest award marks is the very first time a non-American has received the coveted trophy, which has only been given twice before (to Paul Simon in 2007 and Wonder in 2009).

“It’s fantastic for me to be here, because as a little kid I grew up listening to the music of the Gershwin Brothers and loved it and had no idea, of course, that one day I might be in such a place, getting an honour such as this,” McCartney told a news conference yesterday. “I wouldn’t have believed you if you told me as a kid growing up in Liverpool that this would happen. So it’s very special for me.”

James H. Billington, from the Librarian of Congress, said McCartney, “Has made an impact far beyond music through his humanitarianism and activism around the world.”