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U2?s Bono to be Knighted

Lead singer of the band, U2, Bono, will be knighted by the British government in his home city of Dublin. A statement put out by the British Embassy in Ireland?s capital announced this. Besides his contribution to the music industry, Bono is probably better known for his tireless efforts in helping the underprivileged in Africa. For many years, Bono has led countless concerts and projects to benefit the sick, hungry and orphaned on this continent.

This is not the first honorary award granted to Bono. In 2003, France?s President Jacques Chirac presented Bono with the Legion d?Honneur. In 2005, Time Magazine voted him as their Person of the Year for the role he played in promoting global justice and equality. This award was shared with Bill Gates and his wife. This year, Bono was also voted the most influential pop star in the past quarter of a century by MTV.

As is the case with all recipients of a knighthood who are not British nationals, Bono will not be allowed to use the title of Sir. However, he stated that he was very flattered to receive the award and that he hoped that it would open more doors in his effort to fight extreme poverty in Africa. Bono recently organized the Live 8 concerts, along with Bob Geldof, to coincide with the G8 summit for world leaders, which focused on Africa.