Robert Plant.
I always knew that Robert Plant was an aristocrat among rock stars. Now, it’s official. Plant was honored today as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth II, according to Reuters News. I thought he’d been knighted, but not so. See third comment below. He can’t be called “Sir,” either, but if Elton John can be called “Sir,” certainly Robert can!
The Queen also granted awards to British fantasy writer Terry Pratchett and members of Britain‘s Beijing Olympics team, including a knighthood for triple cycling gold medallist Chris Hoy, Britain’s most successful Olympian at a single game in a century.
Plant, 60, is most famous for being the lead singer of rock band Led Zeppelin in the 1970s. I was lucky enough to see Led Zeppelin in 1970.
Plant has forged a successful career since Led Zeppelin‘s disbanded in 1980. He reunited with surviving band members a couple of times for fund-raisers, including once in 2007. Plant recently collaborated with singer Alison Krauss on the celebrated album “Raising Sand.” I saw Plant and Krauss when they toured this year. They were fantastic! To find links to my posts about Plant, Krauss and Led Zeppelin, see below. Click on the post headlines to see the photos, if they don’t appear at first.
Led Zeppelin in 1969 at the beginning of the band's career.
The CBE honors are bestowed in the name of Queen Elizabeth II and are recommended by a panel that considers suggestions from British government departments and political parties as well as from members of the public, according to Reuters.
Alison Krauss and Robert Plant
Robert Plant’s official webpage.
The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire is explained here.
5 Comments
December 31, 2008 at 2:31 pm
Robert Plant for New Year’s Eve, how appropriate!I listened to his music the entire time of my first pregnancy and that child loves his music. He is a poet at heart, Sir Robert that is.
December 31, 2008 at 4:51 pm
The Queen is proving she’s in step with popular culture, and her people… a good start for the new year. Have a wonderful 2009, Cathy, may it be a year of music, movies, and fantastic reading!
December 31, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Actually, the CBE is two steps below a knighthood. He cannot be called “Sir”, but he can add “CBE” after his name. But it’s still a well deserved honor!
January 5, 2009 at 4:12 pm
All the best of wishes and thoughts for 2009 Cathy – and may it rock for you!
January 8, 2009 at 7:52 am
I am looking forward to his new works with Alison Krauss – I saw them on Sunday Morning and the music sounded lovely. How inspiring to know that at any age you can re-invent yourself.