The legendary British DJ is honoured for his contribution to music. A defining figure at Space who returned to Ibiza’s club scene, Cox says he is deeply moved by the recognition.

From making thousands of people dance in Ibiza’s legendary nightclubs to receiving an honour from Prince William at Windsor Castle. Carl Cox, one of the world’s most influential figures in electronic music and a name synonymous with the history of Ibiza nightlife, has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his contribution to music.

The 64-year-old DJ received the honour on Tuesday during a ceremony at Windsor Castle, where Prince William personally presented him with the distinction. The two exchanged a few words during the ceremony, recognising the career of an artist who has spent decades bringing dance floors to life around the world.

Clearly moved by the occasion, Cox shared the news with his followers on Instagram.

“I am absolutely over the moon and deeply honoured to share that I have been awarded an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in the King’s Birthday Honours List,” he wrote.

The DJ also took the opportunity to reflect on a career that began long before he became an international star.

“Music has been my life for as long as I can remember. From my early days behind the decks to performing on stages all over the world, it has been an incredible journey filled with passion, creativity and unforgettable moments,” he said.

“I have been fortunate enough to do what I love and connect with so many wonderful people through the power of music,” he added.

Ibiza: A Fundamental Part of Carl Cox’s Story

Although his career has taken him to venues and festivals across the globe, Ibiza holds a particularly special place in Carl Cox’s life.

The British DJ was one of the leading figures during the golden age of Space Ibiza, where he hosted his legendary Music is Revolution residency every summer from 2001 to 2016.

His name became firmly embedded in the island’s electronic music history, representing a particular approach to clubbing in which the DJ and the dance floor were always at the heart of the experience.

In the summer of 2025, Cox returned to Ibiza’s DJ booths after a nine-year absence, launching a residency at UNVRS, the island’s new-generation superclub.

In an interview with Diario de Ibiza, he admitted that reconnecting with the island’s audience had been an especially emotional experience.

“I love the island, its culture, its people, my friends, I love Spain, but I always come to Ibiza because it is my spiritual place,” he said.

He also explained that his connection with Ibiza had remained unchanged throughout the years he was away.

“Ibiza is my home, the audience is delighted to have me here and that is very comforting,” he explained.

“I Have Always Been a Leader, Not a Follower”

The OBE recognises a career in which Cox has consistently defended his own musical identity, refusing to follow trends or compromise his style as the music industry has evolved.

In his interview with Diario de Ibiza, the DJ explained that his success had been built precisely on staying true to himself, despite exploring a wide range of genres throughout his career, including funk, disco, house and techno.

“I have always been a leader, not a follower, even if that comes at the expense of your career. But that’s okay,” he said.

His return to Ibiza also gave him the opportunity to reconnect with a venue he first knew when it was still called Ku, long before it became Privilege and eventually UNVRS.

Cox recalled those early days, when he visited the club simply as a music lover. Back then, he could not afford certain luxuries and would sometimes walk home after spending the night dancing.

Decades later, he was once again the main attraction at the same venue, headlining its Sunday nights.

Carl Cox Looks to the Future with a New Book and Documentary

At 64, Carl Cox is showing little sign of slowing down. The DJ is working on a new book and a documentary in which Ibiza will feature prominently, reflecting the island’s importance throughout his career.

He also wants to continue developing live electronic music shows and supporting emerging talent, including Ibiza-born DJ Anna Tur.

Looking back on everything he has achieved, Cox revealed that one of his greatest personal ambitions has always been to make his parents proud.

“I have always dreamed that my parents would be proud of me, and I think I have achieved that,” he admitted.