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Celine Dion receives WMA's Legend Award
11/05/2007 12:00 PM, AP
Celine Dion and Patti LaBelle were honored at the World Music Awards for their outstanding careers, while British newcomer Mika took home a clutch of prizes.
Dion received the highest accolade, the Legend Award, at a gala in Monte Carlo on Sunday night. Prince Albert II, who presented the honor, said Dion's voice "soothes the world's hearts and creates smiles of love across the face of the world."
The 39-year-old singer has sold 200 million albums worldwide.
Dion, who recalled her start as the youngest performer among 14 musical siblings, dedicated the award to her family. "Every time I go on stage, it's all of them going on stage with me," she said.
She then performed "Taking Chances," the first single from her upcoming album.
LaBelle was honored for her enduring contribution to R&B. "I love this show because it unites the world with music; we need peace in the world," the 63-year-old singer said.
Mika, 24, won awards for best-selling new artist, best-selling male entertainer, best-selling pop/rock artist and best-selling British artist. He was unable to sing his runaway debut hit, "Grace Kelly," which makes reference to Prince Albert's mother, because he was suffering from laryngitis.
Akon, Rihanna and Avril Lavigne were also among the winners.
Winners are based on worldwide album sales, as certified by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, which is comprised of some 1,400 record companies in 75 countries.
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On the Net:
World Music Awards:
http://www.worldmusicawards.com/
Celine Dion:
http://www.celinedion.com/
Mika:
http://www.mikasounds.com/uk.php
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