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.
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