Hip-Hop Lives Here
Hip-Hop Lives Here
Electronic music icon and legendary DJ Carl Cox has officially received his Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), with Prince William presenting him with the honour at Windsor Castle.
Cox attended the official investiture ceremony on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, receiving the award previously announced as part of the King's Birthday Honours for his contributions to music. He travelled back to the UK from his US tour especially for the occasion, wearing a custom morning suit designed by Ozwald Boateng. His girlfriend and sisters were also there to celebrate the special moment.
"It was an amazing day that I will always remember," said Carl Cox. "I'm incredibly proud, and I know my mum and dad would have been proud of me as well. I'm very happy to receive this honour. I've been doing this for so many years and hope to keep going for many more, sharing my passion for music. I'm truly thrilled and honoured."
The award represents a significant achievement for Cox and the wider international dance music scene, which he has helped shape throughout a career spanning almost 50 years. Having played an important part in the UK's acid house movement, he went on to become one of the most recognised ambassadors of club culture worldwide, maintaining his influence in electronic music.
Despite his decades of success, Cox has no plans to slow down. He continues to perform around the world while exploring new creative projects and delivering live shows that keep pushing electronic music forward.
The Officer of the Order of the British Empire is an honour awarded by the British monarch to individuals who have made meaningful and lasting contributions to their professions or provided exceptional service at a national or international level.
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Stevie Wonder performed at London's O2 Arena on 5 November 2026, celebrating the 50th anniversary of his iconic 1976 album Songs in the Key of Life with a special live show. Accompanied by a 25-piece band, the 76-year-old music legend delivered a multi-part performance honouring one of the most influential double albums in pop history.
First arriving in 1976, Songs in the Key of Life went on to win Wonder his third Album of the Year Grammy, sell more than 10 million copies and receive Diamond certification. The record was also added to the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry. Beloved tracks including "Sir Duke," "I Wish," "Isn't She Lovely," and "As" have continued to resonate with listeners across generations, capturing themes of love, strength and the human experience.
Before making his entrance, Wonder's voice filled the darkened arena, inviting everyone to close their eyes and see the world through "the eyes of our ears." He then took his position at the keyboards and opened the evening with "Love's in Need of Love Today." Later in the show, he welcomed his son Mandla Morris to the stage to join him for a performance of "Have a Talk With God."
Throughout the evening, Wonder kept the audience entertained with moments of humour, adopting a Cockney accent, making references to recent US election results and sharing his thoughts on the divisions affecting the world. He reflected on how the universe follows its natural rhythm while people continue to struggle to find harmony, encouraging everyone to come together.
The set continued with the lively brass arrangements of "Sir Duke" and the infectious rhythm of "I Wish." Wonder also delivered a more intimate version of "If It's Magic," accompanied by harpist Brandee Younger. One of the evening's most touching moments came when he dedicated "As" to his late mother, before bringing the main performance to a close with a lengthy rendition of "Another Star."
The final moments featured his daughter Zaiah Morris taking the lead on John Lennon's "Imagine." Wonder then returned to the spotlight with a powerful performance of "Superstition," extending its famous Clavinet riff into an energetic horn section jam before leaving the stage to a standing ovation.
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