The Swedish government awarded on Tuesday the 2013 Music Export Prize to Tim Bergling for his extraordinary services to Swedish music exports, according to a government press release.

"Sweden's major international success in the world of music makes an important contribution to strengthening Sweden's brand abroad," said Ewa Bjorling, Swedish Minister for Trade.

"They have made a strong contribution to enhancing the image of Sweden abroad, while helping to increase Swedish exports," added the minister.

Artist, composer and producer, known as "Avicii", Bergling challenged a homogeneous electronic dance music scene by "suddenly inviting a country band up on the stage." His song "Wake Me Up" has been number one on iTunes in over 60 countries and regions for several months - his gold and platinum records sold in 25 countries and regions.

The awarding statement said, Bergling "has not only written Swedish pop history with his debut album, but with his wide-open view towards all kinds of pop music, as a composer and producer, he has also - on several levels, not least in the way he markets himself - changed the global stage he acts on."

In the meantime, this year's Special Prize for long-standing contributions to Swedish music went to the group ABBA, 40 years after their breakthrough and victory at the Eurovision Song Contest with the song Waterloo.

The awarding statement said, ABBA, the group of four, "not only remain the strongest Swedish name on the global pop music stage, but also belong to the few world artists who have had the greatest impact on pop history."

Additionally, the TEN Music Group was awarded the first ever Commendation for achievements of particular importance to the internationalization of Swedish music. Endi

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