The Brit was the first DJ to be granted an MBE – Member of the Order of the British Empire – for services to the music industry. The self-described maverick may tout his MBE more than recipients from the establishment – and, even then, it’s usually awe-struck promoters who put it on flyers – but he remains steadfast in his love of music. He’s humble. However, Jay’s MBE represents an important validation of club culture – and black music – in the UK. It should be widely celebrated.