Ringo Starr, Barry Gibb Receive Knighthoods In Queen's New Year's Honors

The legendary musicians are the latest to be granted prestigious royal titles.

According to BBC News, Ringo Starr, 77, and Barry Gibb, 71, were knighted for their services to music and charity during Queen Elizabeth's New Year's Honors on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2017.

"It's great!" Starr, who received the honor under his given name, Richard Starkey, said in a statement. "It's 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." 

The Beatles drummer's former bandmate, Sir Paul McCartney, tweeted his congratulations, along with the photo of the two. "Huge congrats Sir Ringo! Sir Richard Starkey has a nice ring to it," the singer-songwriter, who was knighted 20 years ago, wrote. "Best drummer best pal! X Paul." As the publication noted, the Fab Four were made Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1965.

Meanwhile, Gibb said that he felt "humbled and very proud" to receive the honor. The Bee Gees singer-songwriter had been made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) with his late brothers and bandmates, Maurice and Robin, in 2002. "It is as much theirs as it is mine," he added. "The magic, the glow, and the rush will last me the rest of my life."

As Entertainment Tonight reported, House star Hugh Laurie received his CBE for his services to drama, while Alexandra Shulman, the former editor of British Vogue, also received her CBE for her contributions to fashion journalism.

Earlier this month, J.K. Rowling was named a Royal Companion of Honor by Prince William for her services to literature and philanthropy. Meanwhile, Ed Sheeran received his MBE from Prince Charles for his services to music and charity.

As BBC noted, a total of 1,123 people have received royal honors, with 70% being recognized for their work in their communities.