Wiley is to receive the Outstanding Contribution to Music Award at the 2017 NME Awards.
The 38-year-old Grime superstar – who released his critically-acclaimed 10th studio LP ‘Godfather’ on January 13 – has been honoured with the prestigious title for being an "inventor" of the genre.
Of the accolade the ‘Wearing My Rolex’ rapper – whose real name is Richard Kylea Cowie – said: "Thank you for everyone’s support and thank you NME for this award. It’s because of the fans support that I am here, and my family and friends who’ve been behind me from day one. This for all the massive and the crew."
NME’s editor-in-chief, Mike Williams commented: "Wiley isn’t just the Godfather of grime, he’s the inventor of it too. He’s the man the rest of the scene looks up to, and the figurehead of the most exciting musical movement in a generation. Without Wiley, the entire landscape of British music would look very different, so it’s a huge honour to recognise his influence and talents by awarding him NME’s Outstanding Contribution to Music. This year’s ceremony has just got even more exciting."
Meanwhile, Dua Lipa and Bastille are set to perform at the star-studded ceremony, which takes place at London’s O2 Brixton Academy on February 15, and will be hosted by radio presenter Huw Stephens.
Speaking of performing at the VO5 NME Awards, ‘Be the One’ hitmaker said: "I’m so excited to perform at the NME awards, it’s gonna be really special. Have loved the NME forever – someone pinch me!"
This year’s shortlist sees Beyonce lead the way with five nods for Best Album for ‘Lemonade’, Hero of the Year, Music Moment of the Year, Best International Female and Best Video for ‘Formation’.
British rockers Bastille follow behind with four nominations for Best British Band, Best Album for ‘Wild World’, Best Track for ‘Good Grief’ and Best Live Band.
Voting is open now at www.nme.com/awardsvote
Wiley gets Outstanding Contribution to Music NME Award
