Blur & Gorillaz Frontman Receives Honorary Degree
Damon Albarn, the frontman of the iconic bands Blur and Gorillaz, was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Exeter this week. The university honored Albarn "in recognition of his creativity, innovation, and commitment to environmental causes."
During the university's commencement ceremony on Wednesday, Albarn addressed the graduating class with a humorous and heartfelt speech. He quipped, "The last time I came to Exeter was to receive my driving theory certificates, this is somewhat of an elevation." He also expressed his pride in seeing his daughter graduate the previous week and offered congratulations to all the students, wishing them "wonderful careers."
Albarn then offered words of wisdom to the new graduates, urging them to be critical thinkers in an era of misinformation: "Don't believe in anything until you really know in your heart that it's worth your belief," he said. "These days thereâs so many ways for a single fact to become so fragmented and distorted, itâs insane. Trust in your instincts, don't take no for an answer, be open-minded, and go out there and do great things."
While Albarn's next project remains uncertain, Blur recently reunited after an eight-year hiatus, releasing a new album and touring Europe and South America. However, Albarn stated at the end of 2023 that the band was going on hiatus once again, though they played two shows at Coachella in April.
Meanwhile, the Gorillaz released their star-studded album, *Cracker Island*, in 2023, featuring collaborations with Stevie Nicks, Bad Bunny, Beck, Thundercat, and more.
This honorary degree is a testament to Damon Albarn's enduring legacy as a musical innovator and advocate for important causes. As he inspires the next generation, his future endeavors are eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide.
