Bono accepted an honorary knighthood from the British queen today with one condition — "don't call me sir".
The U2 frontman was awarded the honour during a brief ceremony at British ambassador David Reddaway's official residence in Dublin.
Bono accepting the honour from David Reddaway today
Fellow band members The Edge and Adam Clayton joined the lead singer's wife, Ali, and their four children for the reception.
Like Bob Geldof, he is technically not entitled to be called "sir" as he is not a British citizen.
"By the way, you can call me pretty much anything you want, except sir," he remarked, before suggesting suitable alternatives. "You can call me lord of lords or a demi-god," he said.
A letter to Bono from British Prime Minister Tony Blair was read out to the small gathering, including artists Louis Le Brocquy and long-time friend artist Guggi inside the official residence.
Mr Blair described the Dubliner (46) as an inspiration in the fight against global poverty. He said he was delighted that he had accepted the award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to music and remarkable humanitarian work.
Accepting the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, Bono said: "It has been a great year for this award to happen in, and it does feel like this country and Great Britain are closer than they have ever been."
PA