Van Morrison has received the highest award given to a citizen of the United Kingdom as he was given a knighthood on Queen Elizabeth II's Birthday Honors list in recognition of "services to the music industry and to tourism in Northern Ireland."

The BBC prints a statement from Morrison that reads, "Throughout my career I have always preferred to let my music speak for me, and it is a huge honor to now have that body of work recognized in this way.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the fans who have supported me on my musical journey."

The heads of his label, RCA Records, issued a joint statement in a press release.

"We are thrilled to hear the momentous news that Van Morrison has received such a prestigious and well deserved honor today," they wrote.

"All of us at RCA are wishing him a heartfelt congratulations."