Honorary award for global star

The global icon received an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Music at a ceremony at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre yesterday. (Tuesday, 7 September).

The honorary degree was presented by the School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure in recognition of his considerable contribution to popular music.

At the ceremony, Gurdas said: “This is an emotional moment for me. I accept this honour on behalf of the millions of fans and listeners of my music across the world. I would like to thank everybody here today and especially the people of Wolverhampton, who have shown me so much love and respect over the years.”

Dean of the School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure, John Pymm, said: “The University is absolutely delighted that Gurdas Maan has made time in his very busy international touring schedule to receive an honorary doctorate. Gurdas’ contribution to music is immense and he is a real inspiration for our students.”

With a career spanning over 25 years, Gurdas Maan has become the most prolific and recognisable Punjabi singer in the world today. He has produced over 30 albums and written over 200 songs. He has played a major role in promoting Asian culture at an international level, and his songs portray real life issues and appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds.

His ability to sing, write his own lyrics and perform on stage has made him one of the most versatile and successful artists ever. He has toured the globe, performing in the USA, Canada, Middle East, New Zealand, Hong Kong, UK, Italy, Greece, Denmark, France, Norway and Australia. His stage shows are packed with energy, and his music, whilst infused with eastern and western flavours, remains quintessentially Punjabi.

On other fronts, Gurdas Maan has also starred in blockbuster Bollywood films and has received numerous awards, including the Jury’s Award, presented to him by the President of India in 2005.

Gurdas Maan is one of an exclusive handful of Indian artists who has consistently filled the largest and most prestigious venues in the UK, including the Wembley Arena, NEC (LG Arena) and will perform for the first time in the Royal Albert Hall in 2011.

ENDS

Picture: Gurdas Maan

For more information please contact Vickie Warren in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322736