**Sharleen Spiteri Honoured by University of Glasgow as She Reflects on Texas’ Remarkable Journey**
Sharleen Spiteri, the iconic lead singer of the Scottish rock band Texas, has received an honorary doctorate from the University of Glasgow in recognition of her significant contributions to music. The ceremony, which took place on Wednesday as part of the university’s annual foundation commemoration, marked a poignant moment for the Bellshill-born musician as well as for her bandmates and fans.
Reflecting on her early days in the industry during a conversation with the PA News Agency, Spiteri admitted she never expected Texas to reach the heights they have achieved. “I honestly thought I’d be content if we managed to write just one hit,” she said, recalling when she and bassist Johnny McElhone first sat down in a spare room, piecing together what would soon become their breakthrough single, *I Don’t Want A Lover*. For Spiteri, success at that point seemed distant and unlikely.
Founded in 1986, Texas has gone on to sell millions of records worldwide, becoming one of Scotland’s most prominent musical exports. The band, now nearing their 40th anniversary, features a line-up that includes long-term members Johnny McElhone, Ally McErlaine, Eddie Campbell, Tony McGovern, and Cat Myers. Next year will see the group celebrate four decades together—a milestone few could have predicted in those humble beginnings.
Receiving the honorary degree was, according to Spiteri, an emotional experience. She described how she immediately contacted her sister to share the news, and the pair both expressed a wish that their late mother could witness the occasion. “You can’t help but think of everyone who has helped you along the way,” she added, emphasising the importance of family support and the many people whose encouragement proved vital.
Spiteri also reflected on the realities of her career, remarking that no one starts out successful. “It takes a lot of people to help you, to guide you, and to keep you going,” she said. Despite the group’s global reach and continued success, she retains a sense of humility about her achievements, reiterating her own surprise at the band’s longevity and impact.
When asked about plans to mark Texas’ 40 years, Spiteri was characteristically coy. “If I tell you, then it’s not a surprise!” she quipped. However, she hinted at an especially busy summer ahead, with the band set to perform at 30 festivals around the globe—proof that their appeal remains as strong as ever.
During the event, Spiteri also offered advice to aspiring musicians—albeit with a dose of self-deprecating humour. “Don’t listen to people like me,” she joked, yet went on to highlight the unpredictable nature of the music business and the importance of perseverance.
Other distinguished individuals received honorary doctorates at the same ceremony, including broadcaster Kirsty Young, political scientist Professor Sir John Curtice, and renowned journalist and author Sally Magnusson. Collectively, the recipients were recognised for their significant influence in their respective fields.
Commenting on her own accolade, Kirsty Young said it was deeply meaningful, particularly given her family’s roots in Glasgow. Meanwhile, Professor Sir John Curtice and Sally Magnusson both expressed delight and pride at becoming part of the university’s long and storied history.
The ceremony not only underscored individual achievement but also highlighted the ongoing importance of cultural, journalistic, and intellectual contributions to Scottish society and beyond. Spiteri’s acknowledgement serves as a reminder of the profound impact that music and perseverance can have—not just on fans, but on the fabric of national identity itself.