Wonder collects award three decades late

Stevie Wonder has received France's top cultural honour almost 30 years later than planned.

The 59-year-old was named a Commander of the Arts and Letters in 1981 but scheduling conflicts prevented him receiving the award, reports BBC News.

French Culture Minister Frederic Mitterrand, who presented the award to Wonder, described him as "music's familiar genius".

"I receive this honour in memory of my mother and in memory of all of those that have made it possible for me to stand here today," said Wonder.

"All this in one day, it's almost too much for me. I'm breathless."

The singer was also in Paris to perform and receive a lifetime achievement prize at the Victoires de la Musique awards.