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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Roisin O'Connor

Sir Barry Gibb knighted at Buckingham Palace by Prince Charles: 'If it were not for my brothers, I would not be here'

Bee Gee legend Sir Barry Gibb paid touching tribute to his late brothers as he collected his knighthood on 27 June, honoured for his services to music and charity. 

Sir Gibb, arguably the world's most famous male falsetto and the last surviving member of the iconic pop group, was knighted at Buckingham Palace by Prince Charles. The 71-year-old attended the ceremony with his wife Linda, and his children Michael, Alexandra and Ashley. 

The Bee Gees are considered to be one of the most successful bands in history, selling over 120m albums worldwide and releasing hits including "Staying Alive", "Night Fever" and "Tragedy".

Maurice Gibb died after suffering a heart attack during a bowel operation in 2003, and his twin Robin passed away from cancer in 2012. 

"If it was not for my brothers, I would not be here," Sir Barry said. "If I had spent my whole life writing songs on my own, it would have meant something else altogether. I hope and pray they are aware of what's happened."

(PA)

He said the experience was "a bit surreal" although he added: "It is a high award that your culture can give you and that is something I am enormously proud of."

Detailing his conversation with Prince Charles, Sir Barry said they had met a few times and he was "always very nice to me and I hope he is king". 

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