The Beatles drummer Ringo Starr and Bee Gees founder member Barry Gibb have been awarded knighthoods in the Queen's New Year honors.
Starr's knighthood comes more than half a century after he received an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) at the height of the Fab Four's fame. His former bandmate and the only other surviving Beatle, Sir Paul McCartney received the same accolade in 1997.
In a statement, Starr said it was "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. Ringo."
Starr's more recent solo album, Give More Love (featuring a guest appearance by McCartney) was released earlier this year. Having recently completed a tour of the U.S., the drummer's All Starr Band embarks on a 21-date tour of Europe and Israel in June.
Barry Gibb, who is recognized for his services to music and charity, told the Press Association that being awarded a knighthood was "a moment in life to be treasured and never forgotten."
"I am deeply honored, humbled and very proud," the 71-year-old went on to say, paying tribute to his brothers and Bee Gees co-founders, Maurice and Robin, who died in 2003 and 2012, respectively.
https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/8085604/ringo-starr-barry-gibb-knighted-queen-new-year-honors