Metallica have performed at a special concert saluting the songwriting of Elton John and Bernie Taupin in Washington.

Elton and his songwriting  partner Taupin collected the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for their contribution to music.

The British duo, who wrote Your Song, Tiny Dancer, Rocket Man, Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road together, were serenaded during a tribute concert at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington.

Acts included Joni Mitchell, Garth Brooks, folk singer Brandi Carlile, Annie Lennox and Metallica.

Metallica did a rendition of Funeral For A Friend/Love Lies Bleeding while Lennox sang Border Song and Mitchell and Carlile duetted for I’m Still Standing.

Elton, who was wearing a light-pink suit and colourful glasses and gave a live performance from the piano along with Taupin.

The US honour, named after Jazz Age songwriters George and Ira Gershwin, has previously been given to Stevie Wonder, Sir Paul McCartney, Billy Joel and Brooks.

Last year, Mitchell won the prize, which was established in 2007.

Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden said: “Elton John and Bernie Taupin have written some of the most memorable songs of our lives.

“Their careers stand out for the quality and broad appeal of their music and their influence on their fellow artists.

“More than 50 years ago, they came from across the pond to win over Americans and audiences worldwide with their beautiful songs and rock anthems.

“We’re proud to honour Elton and Bernie with the Gershwin Prize for their incredible impact on generations of music lovers.”