LONDON (AP) — King Charles III has knighted Roger Daltrey, lead singer of The Who, in recognition of his contributions to music and charity, particularly for his work with the U.K.’s Teenage Cancer Trust.
Daltrey, who will now be known as Sir Roger, has been involved with the Teenage Cancer Trust since 2000, overseeing its annual fundraising concert series at the Royal Albert Hall. The charity supports young cancer patients through specialized units across the National Health Service.
“It’s a wonderful honor for me, and especially for Teenage Cancer Trust,” Daltrey said in a statement. “I accept this award not only for myself but on behalf of all the unsung heroes who have given their energy towards making the Teenage Cancer Trust the success it has become.” He praised his colleagues for helping establish 28 specialist units in NHS hospitals.
The 81-year-old added that he planned to celebrate with a bottle of wine, noting, “It’s kind of weird… this honor is really for all unsung heroes. It’s a dream come true for me, but it’s especially a dream because the charity means so much.”
The British government highlighted Daltrey’s efforts, stating, “His annual concerts at the Royal Albert Hall alone have raised over £36 million.” In 2012, Daltrey and his bandmate Pete Townshend launched Teen Cancer America, raising $22 million to support teen cancer units in 62 U.S. hospitals.
Other honorees in King Charles III’s birthday list include Steve Winwood, who received a Member of the Order of the British Empire for services to music, allowing him to use “MBE” after his name. The 75-year-old musician, known for his work with the Spencer Davis Group and Traffic, is related to Queen Camilla by marriage, as his daughter married her nephew.
Graham Gouldman of 10cc and musical theater star Elaine Paige were also recognized in the honors list.