The Recording Academy has announced American rapper and businessman, Sean “Diddy” Combs as the 2020 Grammy Salute To Industry Icons honoree in recognition of his 25-year career and “continuous influence on the music industry and beyond.”
The acclaimed music producer who just celebrated his 50th birthday will get to celebrate his decades-long career at The Recording Academy’s Pre-Grammy Gala on January 25, a day before the annual awards ceremony.
According to a statement by Clive Davis, co-host of the Pre-GRAMMY Gala, said Combs “fully deserves this wonderful recognition.
“It’s personally so gratifying that Sean “Puffy” Combs is this year’s icon,” he said.
“From his past innovative and creative contributions right from the very inception of the hip hop revolution, to his many memorable appearances at the Pre-Grammy Gala as both speaker and performer, it’s all come full circle,” he continued. “I couldn’t be happier for Sean as a dear friend and colleague.”
Speaking on the music legend is the perfect person for the honour, Deborah Dugan, the President and CEO of The Recording Academy, explained Diddy “fused his boundless creativity and sharp entrepreneurial spirit to create timeless art and build brands and institutions that have shifted our global music culture for nearly three decades.”
“By bringing the music and lifestyle of East Coast hip-hop to the masses, he was an early reminder of music’s unifying ability to flip our perceptions and broaden our connections to all corners of the world,”
“Over the years, Diddy has persistently empowered other music creators and we’re honored to celebrate his culture-shaping impact at this year’s Pre-Grammy Gala,” she added.
Combs reacting to the development said the honour truly a blessing.
“Clive Davis and Arista Records gave me a chance when I was starting Bad Boy Records, he was one of the first industry executives to really believe in me. I’m forever grateful for him.”
“To be honored at this year’s Pre-Grammy Gala and receive the Industry Icons Award is truly a blessing,” he said.
Past honorees include, Jay-Z, Davis, Antonio “L.A.” Reid, Berry Gordy and countless others.