Every new year, Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of Her other Realms and Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith, draws up a list of extraordinary people upon whom she would like to bestow high honors: Knighthoods, OBEs, MBEs, CBEs, some other letters. This year, Britain won some stuff in sports, so everyone involved gets a nice pat on the back. And, as ever, a couple of irritating peons got a mention because, look, it's a monarchy and it's Britain, it's pretty much designed to be unfair.Among the sportspeople, actors, and Conservative Party donors, however, are a couple of beloved musical types. Ray Davies of The Kinks is now Sir Ray Davies which seems entirely fair because "Waterloo Sunset" is as close to perfect as a pop song can be. It means he's been bumped up from Commander of the British Empire to Knight; a nice thought. "Initially I felt a mixture of surprise, humility, joy and a bit embarrassed but after thinking about it," Davies said. "I accept this for my family and fans as well as everyone who has inspired me to write."Also receiving a lofty honour (it's spelled with a "u" here and you'll just have to get used to it) is former Spice Girl, solo musician, and fashion designer Victoria Beckham. She now becomes an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, a little above a Member, but below Commander-status.One extremely dope musician who shouldn't be overlooked, and certainly wasn't by Liz II, is Evelyn Glennie. The Scottish percussionist, already a Dame, has been profoundly deaf since the age of 12; she hears her music with other parts of her body, literally feeling the rhythm. You may have heard Glennie on Bjork's Telegram cut "My Spine" and either way you should check out this documentary on her work. On top of her previously bestowed knighthood, she is now a Companion of Honour which is maybe the best title of all.Photo via UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office on Flickr.Follow Noisey on Twitter.
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