The American pianist Herbie Hancock – referred to by the Polar Music Prize jury as a "jazz scientist" and visionary in constant musical development – and Canadian Barbara Hannigan, also called the singing maestro, received their prizes from King Carl Gustaf's hand in the Winter Garden at the Grand Hotel in Stockholm.
The rockers Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor of the British rock band Queen were praised by, among others, Miriam Bryant, who sang their song "The show must go on".
Such a beautiful interpretation, she's incredible, said a moved May, who stepped up on stage to thank Bryant.
The Linköping band Ghost also received standing ovations for their version of "Bohemian Rhapsody".
