Williams visits Germany as part of a 40-date European tour this summer

Williams sent a video message to thank his fans at the ceremony, where Madonna took the best female award and Coldplay won best international group.

Bob Geldof was given a special prize for his work in poverty relief and organising last year's Live 8 show.

He told the German artists it would be their "turn" to raise the issue when Germany hosts the G8 summit in 2007.

Geldof said: "When the representatives of industrialised nations meet next year at the G8 conference in Germany, it will be your turn."

Veteran rockers AC/DC won the best music DVD prize for Family Jewels while teen German band Tokyo Hotel, won the new artists prize.