Insiders revealed the legendary Come To Me rapper, whose real name is Sean Combs, will be honoured with the gong after dominating the rap industry for almost three decades
The Global Icon Award celebrates an artist or band whose unparalleled career, continued impact, and influence have maintained a unique level of global success in music and beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.
Diddy’s 1997 debut album No Way Out is now seven times platinum and helped turn him into a household name.
Since then, in the UK alone, he has gone on to land 10 UK top ten singles, including three No1 hits.
In total, Diddy has sold 11 million records worldwide.
A source said: “He has gone by many names throughout his career but whatever you know him as, be it Puff Daddy, P Diddy or simply Diddy, there is no denying he has changed the landscape of music.
“This year also marks 50 years of hip hop so bosses thought, what better way to honour the genre than line up someone who has been instrumental to making it a success?
“Exact details are being worked out but all signs point to Diddy getting the gong.”
Other artists who were tipped to be in the running for the award included Kylie Minogue, Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift.
During last year’s VMAs, rockers Red Hot Chili Peppers picked up the Global Icon Award.
Previous winners include Janet Jackson, Eminem, and U2.
Earlier this week, Diddy announced his first album in 17 years.
The record, titled The Love Album: Off The Grid, is slated for release on September 15.
Conveniently, that is just days after the VMAs take place in New Jersey on September 12.
The album is jam-packed with some massive collaborations including tracks from The Weeknd, DJ Khaled and Mary J Blige.
On Tuesday, the first batch of performers were announced for this year’s ceremony.
Demi Lovato, Karol G and Eurovision winners Maneskin are all set to perform at the celeb packed event.
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