The legendary Indian singer, Gurdas Maan, was honored with a Doctorate in World Music from The University of Wolverhampton at a ceremony at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on 7th September 2010, in United Kingdom. Dr. Maan was conferred this honor by the School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure of the University for recognition of his lifelong career in music, promotion of Asian music and traditions and the continual maintenance of his natural talent. Dr. Maan is now amongst those few artists in the world that have had the privilege of being worthy of a Doctorate in Music. Others include Sir Paul McCartney, Bill Cosby and Bob Dylan. “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. I am both ‘touched and thankful’ for this recognition and I will continue entertaining my audience like always.”– Said the legendary singer, songwriter and actor.

Gurdas Maan’s originality has resulted in countless accolades, such as a Jury’s Award which was presented to him by the President of India. But now, a Doctorate in World Music from The University of Wolverhampton has come as another milestone for this living legend. John Pymm, Dean of the School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure who presented the honorary award 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 Maan’s contribution to music is immense and he is a real inspiration for our students.”

With a career spanning over 25 years, Dr. Gurdas Maan has become the most prolific and recognizable 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. Star guests that attended the ceremony included Punjabi Sensation- Jazzy B, Music Composer & Singer Sukshinder Shinda, Singers Shin, Jaz Dhami, Sardara Gill and famous Punjabi songwriter Jandu Littranwala.

Gurdas Maan’s 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, UK, Italy, Greece, Denmark, 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, Dr. Gurdas Maan has also starred in blockbuster Bollywood films and has received numerous awards.
Dr. Maan is also going to perform live at The Royal Albert Hall in April 2011 in a special show organized by UK BOX OFFICE. On 6th September, 2010, late evening in a press conference at the Royal Albert Hall, Dr. Gurdas Maan announced the official opening of the Box Office for that show. Dr. Maan has performed on many prestigious stages during his successful 25 year career as a Punjabi singing sensation. In UK itself, Dr. Maan has performed at other acclaimed venues such as Wembley Arena (London) and the National Exhibition Centre (Birmingham), and now performing at The Royal Albert Hall will be a big achievement for the Indian artist as it is one of UK’s most treasured architectural landmarks and is recognizable all over the globe. ‘I am extremely honored that I have been given this opportunity to perform at this beautiful historical landmark and appreciate that I am one of the few artists that have had the privilege to perform at such an extraordinary place.’ Said Dr.Maan at the Press conference.

Since its opening by Queen Victoria in 1871, The Royal Albert Hall has staged leading artists of the world including Sir Cliff Richard, Pavarotti, Robbie Williams, The Beatles and Frank Sinatra. Speeches have also been delivered here by world influential figures including Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela.

The UK tour in 2011 will take place in six major cities: London, Birmingham, Glasgow, Wolverhampton, Leicester and Leeds; each of which will give Dr. Gurdas Maan’s legions of fans the opportunity to experience firsthand his persistent high class performance.