Queen Elizabeth II Honors Paul McCartney, Adele, Bono, And Other Musicians And Music Executives

During Queen Elizabeth II’s more than 70-year reign, dozens of major music industry figures were honoured with the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, a chivalric order designed to recognise British individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts and sciences, charity, and public service in the United Kingdom. This has included both famous and behind-the-scenes industry figures, such as Elton John and Universal Music Group chairman Lucian Grainge.

In descending order of importance, the five classes of the Order of the British Empire are: Knight and Dame Grand Cross (GBE), Knight and Dame Commander (KBE and DBE, respectively), Commander (CBE), Officer (OBE), and Member (MBE).

Not every music legend who has been offered these titles has accepted them. David Bowie famously declined both a CBE and a knighthood (GBE) in 2000 and 2003. “I would never have any intention of accepting anything like that,” the icon reportedly said of the latter honour. I honestly have no idea what it’s for. It’s not what I’ve dedicated my life to.”
Other notable musicians who have declined honours include John Lydon, aka Sex Pistols’ Johnny Rotten (MBE); Paul Weller (CBE); jazz musician Humphrey Lyttelton (knighthood); and George Harrison, who turned down an OBE three years after his Beatles bandmate Paul McCartney was knighted.
However, the list of music industry luminaries who accepted these honours far outnumbers those who declined. Following the Queen’s death on Thursday (Sept. 8) at the age of 96, we’ve compiled a list of those who did show up to receive their titles — and thus earned the right to add a “Sir,” “Dame,” or other designation to their names.
Geldof, Bob (GBE)

On June 10, 1986, Queen Elizabeth II bestowed an honorary knighthood on the Live Aid organiser and Boomtown Rats singer/songwriter for his charitable work. Because he is an Irish citizen, his knighthood is honorary.

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