Elton John was honored for his contribution to the musical world.
Elton John . After decades of commercial chart success , John has also achieved success in musical theatre , both in the West End and on Broadway , composing the music for The Lion King ( film and musical ) , Aida and Billy Elliot the Musical . He has received five Grammy Awards , five Brit Awards -- winning two awards for Outstanding Contribution to Music and the first Brits Icon in 2013 for his `` lasting impact on British culture '' , an Academy Award , a Golden Globe Award , a Tony Award , a Disney Legends award , and the Kennedy Center Honors in 2004 . The Kennedy Center Honors is an annual honor given to those in the performing arts for their lifetime of contributions to American culture ( though recipients do not need to be U.S. citizens ) .