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Brian May, guitarist of the legendary musical group “Queen”, was one of the first to receive the honor of “Knighthood” under the newly crowned King Charles III, as part of the 2023 edition of the British Crown’s New Year’s Honors List.
The musician will now be named Sir Brian Harold May, joining a select list of honorees that includes other music personalities such as Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney.
The artist, who also holds a doctorate in Astro-physics, was honored with this title “for his services to music and charitable works.” Previously, the guitarist and composer had been appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2005.
Regarding the appointment, May said he hopes the knighthood will give him “a bit more clout”: “Maybe a few more people will listen to me otherwise, you know, if it’s Sir Brian on the phone,” the musician told The Associated Press via Zoom from his home in Windlesham, Surrey.
May is a well-known activist against badger and fox hunting through an animal welfare group he founded in 2010, called “Save Me,” just like the Queen song recorded in 1980. Some animals he has rescued over the years were released on land he owns.
He also co-founded “Asteroid Day,” an effort to raise awareness of how the planet must prepare for the potential dangers of an asteroid impact. The United Nations recognized this day as an official holiday in 2016.
“I am happy and grateful to receive this honor,” May said in a statement.
“I will consider knighthood not so much as a reward, but more as a charge, a commission, to continue to fight for justice, to be a voice for those who have no voice. I will strive to be worthy, to be that Knight in Shining Armor.”
Independent Writer. Marketing and communications strategist for politicians, artists, public figures & corporate brands for more than 10 years. Contact: @alejandrosbasso (Twitter)
Escritor independiente. Consultor en marketing y comunicaciones de políticos, artistas, figuras públicas y marcas por más de 10 años. Contacto: @alejandrosbasso (Twitter)