PinkPantheress gets honorary university degree

PinkPantheress, a popular singer who grew up in Canterbury, is set to receive an honorary degree from the University of Kent. The university is recognizing her for her significant contributions to music, especially in the digital age. PinkPantheress, whose real name is Victoria Beverley Walker, will be awarded the title of Doctor of Music during a graduation ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral. At just 22 years old, she expressed her excitement and gratitude, saying, 'I am so honoured to get this, this is so cool. '

Her journey to fame began on social media, where she first shared her music. On Christmas Day in 2020, she uploaded her song Just A Waste to TikTok, which featured a sample from Michael Jackson. Over the next year and a half, she continued to post short snippets of her songs online, quickly gaining a following. Her unique style and catchy tunes caught the attention of Parlophone, a major record label, and she soon signed a contract with them. PinkPantheress is now internationally known for her hit singles Just for Me, Pain, and Boy's a Liar. She has received several awards, including the BBC's Sound of 2022 and Best Female Act at the MOBO awards. Last month, she performed at the famous Glastonbury music festival, further cementing her place in the music industry.

Despite her success, PinkPantheress has faced challenges. She revealed on social media that years of exposure to loud music have left her 80 percent deaf in her right ear. This has affected her ability to perform, and last year she had to cancel several tour dates to focus on her health and wellbeing. She told her fans that taking care of herself was important, even if it meant disappointing some people. Alongside PinkPantheress, other notable figures are also receiving honorary degrees from the University of Kent this week, including writer Sir Michael Morpurgo, presenter Iain Dale, filmmaker Andrea Arnold, and conservationist Giles Clark. PinkPantheress's story is an inspiring example of how talent, hard work, and the power of social media can lead to great achievements, even in the face of personal challenges.