Big names in music are getting recognized in the King’s New Year Honours, highlighting their contributions to both art and society.
Several prominent artists and music industry figures have been honored in the King’s New Year Honours list, reflecting their remarkable contributions to music and social initiatives. Acclaimed composer and producer Max Richter has received a CBE for his services to music, coinciding with the release of the film Hamnet, which features his score and is currently generating Oscar buzz.
Ellie Goulding, known for her four No. 1 singles and albums, has been awarded an MBE for her significant efforts in promoting biodiversity and addressing climate change. As a global environmental ambassador for the UN, her work emphasizes the intersection of music and activism.
Cynthia Erivo, who has made a name for herself in both music and drama, is also receiving an MBE. Best known for her role in the film adaptations of the Wicked musical, she’s a talented solo artist and producer. Erivo expressed her surprise and gratitude for the recognition, stating it was an “honor I could never have thought would happen.”
Idris Elba, the multi-talented actor and DJ, is awarded a knighthood for his services to young people. Elba has recently renewed his publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group, further solidifying his role in the music arena.
In the realm of industry leadership, Karen Emanuel, founder and CEO of Key Production Group, has been recognized with an OBE for her contributions to music. As the 2024 Music Week Women In Music Businesswoman Of The Year, Emanuel has championed physical music for over three decades. She expressed her gratitude for the honor, acknowledging her dedicated team and her commitment to supporting women in the industry and promoting sustainability.
Emanuel founded RevolutionS (formerly Moving the Needle), a nonprofit organization aimed at mentoring women entering the music business. She’s also an advocate for mental health awareness and equality within the industry, ensuring that environmental responsibility is a priority in music manufacturing.
Additionally, Phillip Patterson, previously a sector specialist at the Department for Business and Trade, has received an OBE for his role in promoting exports and his contributions to the music industry, notably in his work with the British Music Embassy at SXSW.
Scottish singer Eve Graham, a founding member of The New Seekers, has been awarded an MBE for her services to the music industry, including her hit single, I’d Like To Teach The World To Sing. Janet Fischer, chair of Live Music Now, also receives an MBE for her charitable work in music.
BPI CEO Dr. Jo Twist OBE and BPI chair YolanDa Brown OBE DL welcomed the recognition for UK artists, noting the significant cultural and economic impact of British music. They expressed their congratulations to all honorees and acknowledged the vital work artists are doing for biodiversity and climate awareness.
