A petition to get songwriter and Electric Light Orchestra frontman Jeff Lynne a knighthood has been established.
Fans believe the Evil Woman and Mr. Blue Sky hitmaker is more than worthy of receiving the honorary title, with hundreds already signing the petition. The Change.org post was established in light of Lynne being forced to cancel his final two ELO performances earlier this week. His second night at the Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester and a final bow at Hyde Park in London were cancelled due to ongoing health issues for the 77-year-old. Lynne told attendees at the Birmingham show he had been involved in a taxi crash, breaking his hand. Just days later, Lynne pulled out of the Manchester show and later cancelled the Hyde Park show.
A statement from the songwriter’s team reads: “Jeff Lynne is heartbroken to report that he will not be able to perform at tomorrow’s BST Hyde Park show. Jeff has been battling a systemic infection and is currently in the care of a team of doctors who have advised him that performing is simply not possible at this time, nor will he be able to reschedule.
“The legacy of the band and his longtime fans are foremost in Jeff’s mind today – and while he is so sorry that he cannot perform, he knows that he must focus on his health and rehabilitation at this time.” In light of the cancellation, fans are calling on Lynne to receive a knighthood for services to music.
The petition has seen fans rally around the 77-year-old, whose final show was played out at Manchester earlier this month. The Change.org post reads: “Jeff Lynne’s music transcends geographical and generational boundaries, bringing joy and inspiration to countless individuals worldwide.
“His unique talent has not only enriched the lives of those who hear his music but also propelled the music industry forward with innovation and creativity. Granting Jeff Lynne a knighthood would be a fitting tribute to his immeasurable contributions to music and culture. It is a gesture that would honour both him and the music community at large.
“We urge the Honours Committee to consider this well-deserved recognition for Jeff Lynne’s exceptional career in music. By doing so, we not only acknowledge his past achievements but also inspire future generations to pursue artistic excellence with the same passion and commitment.”
While Lynne may have had to pull out of performing his final two shows, fans are hopeful the veteran musician stays active. Lynne suggested these shows were not a “farewell to music” when speaking to MOJO Magazine earlier this year.
The frontman confirmed he would be working in the studio, though fans were kept in the dark on whether this would be new music for ELO or solo material. No announcements have been made as of yet, though fans are keen to see Lynne given a knighthood for his decades of service to the music industry.
Yes I think jeff lynne should be knighted
A knighthood is well overdue for one of the greatest ever songwriters the UK has produced. An extremely talented multi instrumentalist and perfectionist whose music will last forever.
Jeff is also a super talented producer whose work is admired and sought after, the world over, including the likes of Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan and many more high profile names.
A knighthood for Jeff Lynne is much deserved.
totally Alan it beggars belief that he hasn’t been knighted before now ELO was my favourite group growing up there music is still as good today as it was then.
💯 agree, his contribution to music over the years have been phenomenal, much deserved
Fortunate to see ELO at that last show. So sad to see how he was, and had very mixed emotions. Brilliant to finally see him and could not fault the show. An absolute true pro. Just hope he takes the time to recover fully. Thanks for the music Jeff
Great musician and song writer and producer too, got many elo albums and vinyl singles, my fave album is a ner world record from 1976, Livin thing, tightrope, , fave single among many is showdown, but heard bob Harris play long version of 10538 overture, think that’s a joint fave, sorry to go on, get well soon Jeff, and thanks for all the great music over the years, tak care, Chelsea Dave👍💙
Also my favourite album, he opened with tightrope when we saw him at the 02, sent shivers down my spine
He should definitely be given a knighthood
I believe the finest musical talent this country has ever produced. A knighthood would be the least the man should be awarded for the joy he has bought to millions
Jeff Lynne should be given a Knighthood, if we can give them to others who may have represented the UK once or been an MP. This man has given us a lot more during his music career.
Definitely
Yes I do agree Jeff should be knighted 🇬🇧😊👍⭐️🎸🪕
Give that man a well deserved Knighthood!! He’s an absolute ‘God’ in the world of musicians. Today’s stars are truly mediocre in comparison. Jeff has created a legacy of songs that can never be matched ever again by another human being. ELO are simply unique. ❤️🎸🎤🎼
Arise Sir Jeff🙏🏻
Absolutely deserves this! Best Artist ever!💕
I was fortunate to be at the last concert in Manchester. Jeff was clearly struggling through but was clearly very poorly. The rest of the band helped him through and the standing ovation for Jeff was very moving. Despite Jeff being below par it was still fabulous and a very special night. Get well soon Mr Blue Sky.
And of course he should be Sir Jeff!
Absolutely, Jeff should get a knighthood. I grew up with his music since late sixties and it took me through some of my darkest days. A very talented guy and a credit to his country.
Should of been knighted years ago a British legend
A long time coming. Definitely deserves it
Definitely overdue he’s one hell of a songwriter and performer Sir Jeff Lynne sounds good he deserves the honour he’s a gentleman never put a foot wrong and so humble Knight him
Have followed ELO for many years together with Statusquo. Both bands have taken rock and roll music into the current era and do shows that are happy and leave their gigs buzzing with delight. Jeff Lynne has been been a huge influence on my life. Great man !!!
Jeff Lynne is a musical gift to the world from Britain. He is well deserving of a knighthood. Please MAKE IT SO !
I have been a massive fan of ELO since early days. To say they are unique would be an understatement. Jeff Lynne is the epitome of what great music is all about. I’m all for him receiving a knighthood. God bless you Jeff.