Last Tuesday, Pop-R&B star PinkPantheress received her honorary doctorate in music at the University of Kent in Canterbury, England.
After dropping out of college for one year to professionally pursue a music career, the 24-year-old artist and producer, born Victoria Beverly Walker, took to the podium in a red cap and gown at Canterbury Cathedral to obtain her diploma. Pink's honor at the ceremony came from her "contributions to music in the digital age."
During her speech, Pink reflects on her journey, growing up in Canterbury and rising to become a huge pop star. “Canterbury was the backdrop for the majority of my life. I joined my first band here. I had my first-ever job at the cricket ground. I uploaded my first songs to SoundCloud here.”
The speech also allowed her the space to reflect on how rapidly the industry and music education are changing, referencing the budget cuts from music education programs all over the UK. She says, "It’s never been more important to give young people access to different artistic outlets … Trust yourself and lean on those who support you.”
She then ends her speech with gratitude and hopes that people can be on her side against defunding collegiate music programs. “I cannot believe this and legit every single person who graduated with a doctorate or any degree today at Kent Uni. I am in awe of you; you’re the future, you’re everything. I am not worthy of being in your presence.”
@pinkpantheress i cannot believe this and legit every single person who graduated with a doctorate or any degree today at kent uni, i am in awe of you, you’re the future you’re everything, i am not worthy of being in your presence @University of Kent ♬ Illegal - PinkPantheress
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