Tony Iommi, Carl Cox and Cerys Matthews Named in King’s Birthday Honours
Tony Iommi, Carl Cox, and Cerys Matthews are among the recipients in the King’s Birthday Honours list. The annual awards recognize UK individuals for contributions to society across arts, science, and public service, with Iommi receiving an MBE for music and charity and Cox and Matthews receiving OBEs.
Who received honors in the King’s Birthday Honours list?
Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi was awarded an MBE for services to music and charity. Singer and broadcaster Cerys Matthews received an OBE, while DJs Carl Cox and Judge Jules were awarded an OBE and MBE, respectively.

Other recipients include actor Helen Mirren, who was named a Companion of Honour, and children’s authors Julia Donaldson and Malorie Blackman. Peter Lord and David Sproxton, the founders of Aardman Animations, were also recognized.
How did Carl Cox and Tony Iommi respond to their awards?
Carl Cox, 63, credited his fans, collaborators, and the electronic music community for the recognition. He stated he is “absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured” to receive the OBE after 40 years at the forefront of UK club culture.
Cox previously presented the monthly Essential Mix series on BBC Radio 1. He described the honor as “humbling” for doing something that brought him joy.
Tony Iommi expressed gratitude on social media, noting it has been a privilege to connect with fans and raise money for charities. He stated that music has been his life and thanked those who supported his journey.
What are the career backgrounds of the music honorees?
Cerys Matthews is known as the lead singer of the Welsh alt-rock band Catatonia. She has also worked as a regular presenter for BBC Radio 4, Radio 2, and 6 Music.
Tony Iommi recently appeared on a single titled ‘Rocket’ with Robbie Williams. He and his Sabbath bandmates previously received the Freedom of Birmingham award.
What may happen next for these artists?
Tony Iommi could expand his discography in the coming years. At the start of the year, he stated he would “definitely” release a new solo album in 2026.

The recognition of these figures may lead to increased visibility for the specific genres and charitable causes they represent within the UK’s cultural framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the music industry recipients in the King’s Birthday Honours list?
Recipients included Tony Iommi (MBE), Cerys Matthews (OBE), Carl Cox (OBE), and Judge Jules (MBE).
What is Tony Iommi’s future plan for new music?
Iommi stated earlier this year that he would definitely release a new solo album in 2026.
Which other non-musical figures were named in the list?
The list included Helen Mirren, Julia Donaldson, Malorie Blackman, and Aardman Animations founders Peter Lord and David Sproxton.
Which of these artists’ contributions to UK culture do you find most significant?