On January 22, 1996, Celine Dion received the title of 'Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et Lettres' (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters) from Philippe Douste-Blazy, at the moment Minister of the Culture in France, in recognition of her status of best-selling French-language artist in history and as such, the best ambassadress of the French language in the world. This prestigious recognition is awarded to people whose exceptional accomplishments have contributed significantly to furthering the arts in France and throughout the world.
On this day, Celine Dion and her husband Rene Angelil were at the 30th Midem (Marché International du Disque et de L'Edition Musicale), that took place from January 21 to January 25, 1996, in Cannes, France.
In the evening of January 22, Celine Dion gave a special concert for the Midem. Jean-Jacques Goldman took part in the concert.
