Irmin Schmidt, founder of legendary German experimental band Can, is now a true French knight. It was announced via Mute and Spoon Records that Schmidt was knighted by the French Ministry of Culture for his contribution to the arts.
A most renowned musician, Schmidt's knighthood is paired with the Chevalier de l'Orde des Arts et des Lettres award, which will be presented in Berlin on Feb. 10. Per the German Embassy, the French government chose Schmidt "for his entire work and his great connection and effort between the two countries."
Schmidt was first interested in the experimental genre when on a trip to New York he was exposed to the city's underbelly. It was because of Andy Warhol and the Velvet Underground that Schmidt formed Can in 1968 with Michael Kasoli, Jaki Liebezeit and Holger Czukay.
The group's debut album, Monster Movie, arrived approximately one year after the band's inception, followed by critically acclaimed releases Tago Mago and Ege Bamyasi, which featured the song "Spoon."
They also had another hit, "I Want More" which took to and climbed the charts in 1976.
While the award may come off as strange, it's common for non-French citizens to the Chevalier accolade. Other recpients include Colombian singer Juanes, actor George Clooney and director Tim Burton.
So until next time, here's a little Can below.
