Ray Davies is knighted

Sir Ray Davies: performing in Toronto, 1977. Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Jean-Luc

The New Year Honours List sees The Kinks’ songwriter and frontman awarded a knighthood for his service to the arts

The Kinks’ frontman Ray Davies received a knighthood today for his service to the arts as part of the Queen’s annual New Year Honours list. The songwriter was among a host of stars who were recognised for their services, including Welsh opera singer Bryn Terfel who has also been knighted, and former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham who was honoured with an OBE for services to the fashion industry.

“Initially I felt a mixture of surprise, humility, joy and a bit embarrassed but after thinking about it, I accept this for my family and fans as well as everyone who has inspired me to write,” Davies told the BBC.

Ray Davies formed the 60s British rock band The Kinks with his brother Dave, and wrote classics such as You Really Got Me, Waterloo Sunset and Sunny Afternoon. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and split up six years later.

the 72-year-old songwriter was previously awarded the CBE – Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire – in 2004, and now joins Paul McCartney, Elton John, Mick Jagger and Van Morrison as other musicians who have received a knighthood.

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