Elton John ‘humbled’ after receiving Companion of Honour award in New Year’s honours
Singer-songwriter was recognised for his incredible five-decade career and contribution to 23 different charities
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir Elton John has said he is “humbled” after receiving the highest acknowledgement in the 2020 New Year’s Honour lists.
The singer-songwriter, who is currently on a farewell tour around the world, was given the Companion of Honour for a career spanning more than five decades, in which time he has sold more than 300 million records.
“I’m humbled and honoured to be among such highly esteemed company in receiving the Companion of Honour. 2019 has turned out to be a truly wonderful year for me and I feel extraordinarily blessed.”
John has used his fame to promote the work of 23 charities including his own Aids foundation. He is one of only 64 people, apart from the ruling monarch, who can hold the title at any one time.
John is one of a number of figures in the arts to be recognised in the 2020 honours. British director Sam Mendes was knighted for his work in film in theatre, as was 12 Years a Slave director Steve McQueen. Writer Rose Tremain was made a dame.
Read more on the New Year’s Honours here.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments