Coldplay to receive Godlike Genius Prize at NME Awards

18 January 2016

Coldplay will be given the Godlike Genius prize at the NME Awards 2016.

Coldplay

The 'Adventure of a Lifetime' rockers have been chosen to receive the special accolade at the magazine's annual ceremony next month in recognition for their phenomenal career which has seen them release seven studio albums, sell over 80 million records and play to sell-out stadiums all over the world.

The band will also perform an exclusive set of their greatest hits to close the show.

Previous Godlike Genius winners include The Clash, Paul Weller, The Cure, Noel Gallagher, Manic Street Preachers, New Order and Joy Division, Dave Grohl, Johnny Marr, U2, Ian Brown and Blondie.

Speaking about the honour, frontman Chris Martin said: "We're extremely grateful to the NME for giving us this award. It's a huge honour and it means everything to us as Coldplay would be nothing without the NME. Appearing in the magazine for the first time in 1998 - in the smallest font - was the biggest thing that ever happened to us, and their love and support changed our world. Thank you so much NME."

Praising Coldplay's contribution to the rock world and history with NME, Mike Williams, Editor in Chief of the publication, said: "Coldplay first attended the NME Awards over a decade ago, and since then have gone on to be the biggest band on the planet, so it's an honour to invite them back as this year's Godlike Genius. NME were there for the band right at the beginning - our early coverage was instrumental in setting them on their way - and we've had a thrilling relationship in the 15 years since. As Coldplay gear up for their biggest year yet - from the Super Bowl to Wembley Stadium - it's fitting that they join the likes of The Cure, Dave Grohl, Blondie and Noel Gallagher in being named NME's Godlike Genius."

Elsewhere, The Libertines and Wolf Alice lead the way with six nominations each at the ceremony.

The NME Awards 2016 with Austin, Texas, takes place at London's O2 Academy Brixton on 17 February and tickets can be purchased from NME.com/tickets now.