Record mogul tastes award glory

Ian Youngs Music reporter, BBC News

Mr Grainge has contributed to Universal's musical success

Pop stars including U2 and Take That have given their boss - music executive Lucian Grainge - a taste of rock glory by honouring him with a top award.

Mr Grainge, head of Universal Music Group International, was praised by his artists as he collected the Music Industry Trust Award in London.

U2 presented the accolade, while Take That, Mika, Razorlight, Jamie Cullum ad Sugababes performed in his honour.

U2's lead singer Bono described Mr Grainge as a "great" label boss.

"He's great because he's ready to take on the world for British music, and Irish music for that matter," Bono said.

'Tender soul'

"He's a tough guy when it comes to deals but he's a very tender soul to deal with if you're U2."

Mr Grainge let the band "be ourselves", and would "never try to interfere with us, never try to step on our toes", Bono added.

I'm pleased that tonight I can be the front for the industry and our company and our artists as well Lucian Grainge

Mr Grainge, whose roster also includes Amy Winehouse, Duffy and Sir Elton John, has helped make Universal the UK's most successful record company.

"It's inevitably very flattering and I'm pleased that tonight I can be the front for the industry and our company and our artists as well," he said.

Abba's Benny Andersoon and Bjorn Ulvaeus, Girls Aloud and Snow Patrol were also at the ceremony, while Mariah Carey, Lionel Richie and The Pussycat Dolls sent video messages.

As well as honouring Mr Grainge, the night raised more than