In a remarkable celebration of music, the legendary British band Queen, acclaimed American jazz artist Herbie Hancock, and talented Canadian soprano and conductor Barbara Hannigan have been chosen as the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Polar Music Prize. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on May 27 at Stockholm's Grand Hôtel, broadcast live in Sweden on TV4. Esteemed musicians worldwide have expressed their deep gratitude for this honor, acknowledging its significance in recognizing artistic contributions. This event highlights not only the achievements of these three artists but also their influence on future generations within the global music community.
A Celebration of Artistic Excellence Across Generations
On a radiant spring evening in Stockholm, the city prepares to welcome some of the most celebrated figures in contemporary music history. The surviving members of Queen—Brian May, Roger Taylor, and John Deacon—expressed profound appreciation upon learning they were selected for this esteemed award. Meanwhile, jazz legend Herbie Hancock, now 84 years old, reflected on how being part of such an illustrious lineup inspires him further. Joining them is Barbara Hannigan, whose dual career as both singer and conductor continues to break boundaries. Established in 1970, Queen remains one of Britain’s greatest rock bands ever, while Hancock boasts numerous accolades including an Oscar win back in 1987 and multiple Grammy Awards spanning various genres.
Hannigan, who began her journey as a soprano before transitioning into conducting at age forty, now leads orchestras globally. She recently announced plans to assume leadership roles with Iceland Symphony Orchestra starting next year. Previous honorees include icons like Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen, and many others across different musical disciplines. Each laureate will walk away from the ceremony richer by one million Swedish Krona (approximately £74,082 GBP or $93,897 USD), reflecting the generous spirit behind this initiative founded by Stig "Stikkan" Anderson nearly three decades ago.
The selection process involves an independent committee comprising eleven members tasked with choosing winners based on public nominations alongside those submitted through UNESCO’s International Music Council. These efforts ensure geographical representation along with diverse musical tastes are well-represented among nominees every year.
From journalist's perspective, it is inspiring to witness how awards like the Polar Music Prize continue fostering unity across borders via shared love for music. Such events remind us that regardless of background or style preference, art connects humanity universally. As new talents emerge inspired by legends honored today, we can look forward eagerly toward tomorrow’s musical landscape shaped positively by these influences. This annual tradition serves as testament to enduring power of creativity transcending time itself.