Beatles drummer Richard Starkey, better know as Ringo Starr, has been knighted in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.
Starr received the recognition for his contribution to the world of music, and for his services to charity. He is among 
more than 1,100 others recognized in this year’s Honours List. Starr also now joins fellow Beatles bandmate Sir Paul McCartney, who was knighted in 1997.
A knighthood is the highest honor that can be given by the royal family, and the process involves first being nominated by the public, followed by reviews by two different committees. Nominations are then sent to the Prime Minister, and finally the royal family for approval. Males are given the title of Sir, and females given the title of Dame.
While Sir Richard Starkey’s musical achievements are well known, he has also contributed to a number of charities and causes including human rights, abused children, AIDS awareness, and poverty.