Ringo Starr and Barry Gibb Knighted by Queen’s New Year’s Honors

Ringo Starr in 2017. Photo by Suzanne Cordeiro/REX/Shutterstock (9185931r)

The Beatles drummer Ringo Starr and Bee Gees singer Barry Gibb have been knighted by Queen Elisabeth II New Year’s honors list. The list also contains other familiar names, including Strictly judge Darcey Bussell who has been made a dame and House star Hugh Laurie, who has received Commander of the British Empire (CBE) medal.

Ringo Starr became the second member of the Beatles who received this honor after Paul McCartney was knighted 20 years ago. All four members of the band received MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in 1965.

“It’s great!” said Ringo. “It’s an honor and a pleasure to be considered and acknowledged for my music and my charity work, both of which I love. Peace and love.”

Starr, real name Sir Richard Starkey, has been knighted for both his contributions to music and charity efforts. After the Beatles disbanded, the drummer embarked on a successful solo career, releasing 19 studio albums. His last album titled Give More Love was released in September 2017 and featured an appearance from McCartney.

Barry Gibb also said he was “humbled and very proud” by his knighthood. Before receiving a knighthood, Gibb was made a CBE in 2002, alongside his late brothers and bandmates Maurice and Robin.

“It is as much theirs as it is mine.” said Gibb. “The magic, the glow, and the rush will last me the rest of my life.”

Gibb released his second solo album titled In the Now, in October 2016, although he previously said he was considering quitting music after deaths of his brothers. The album marked the first new material release since the last album of Bee Gees, 2001’s This Is Where I Came In.