Queen drummer Roger Taylor has been named an Officer of the British Empire (OBE) as part of Queen Elizabeth’s New Year's Honours list.
A member of Queen since its formation in 1970, Taylor is being recognized for his services to music as part of the annual event, which also sees performers Elton John and Olivia Newton-John recognized for their work.
“Congratulations Rog OBE!!!,” posted guitarist Brian May on Instagram. “What does OBE mean? Well, for all you non-Brits, let me explain. The letters stand for ‘Order of the British Empire’ – a traditional honor presented to people who have achieved worthy things in the eyes of … well, the British Monarchy, under advice. It’s the beginning of a whole spectrum of honors.
“Next one up is the MBE – ‘Member of the British Empire’ – and above that is the CBE – ‘Commander of the British Empire’. The next level of the game is a KBE – a Knighthood – which entitles the recipient to be known as ‘Sir’. I received a KBE some years ago. It doesn’t change your life very much apart from giving you some letters to put after your name in correspondence!”
“The award which really moves you to a different place in Society is when they make you a LORD – which entitles you (or requires you) to sit in the House of Lords, participating in the passing of British laws and policies,” continued May. “So there ya go! Who decides these things? Well, it’s all done quietly behind closed doors by a small committee – but most awards have been lobbied for, by friends and colleagues who feel the person deserves recognition. Thanks, guys! Bri”
Queen were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2001, and all four original members were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2003.
Queen and Adam Lambert will resume their Rhapsody Tour next month with shows in South Korea and Japan.
Queen were named the No. 10 Rock News Artist Of The Year as part of the 2019 hennemusic Rock News Awards.
See also:
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Queen and Adam Lambert expand Rhapsody tour residency in London
Rock News Artist Of The Year No. 10: QUEEN
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Search Queen at hennemusic
