Paul Weller Crowned NME 'Godlike Genius'

It's been a long time coming but Paul Weller - former leader of the Jam, lynchpin of the Style Council and all-round Modfather - is to be honoured by weekly music magazine NME when they crown him Godlike Genius at this year's Shockwaves NME Awards on Feb. 24.

Speaking of the nomination, Weller said, "I'm very happy to accept the award; I don't feel godlike or a genius but I'm happy to have it. It's nice to be recognised, you get your rewards in other ways too like playing live and seeing people's reaction, but it's nice to be recognised. I'm very flattered. I shall find a special place for it. A little altar to myself with garlands of flowers around it!"

Weller first shot to prominence with the Jam in 1976 before splitting the band at the height of their success in 1982. During their lifetime, the band scored an impressive 18 consecutive Top 40 singles, including four number ones. He returned the following year with his new project, the Style Council, before embarking on a highly successful solo career in the early 1990s. His 10th solo album -- 'Wake Up The Nation' -- is set for release in April.

The awards, hosted by Jarvis Cocker, will be held at the Brixton Academy in South London and Weller will take to the stage where it's expected he'll perform a career-spanning set, Previous recipients of the Godlike Genius Award include Manic Street Preachers,Ian Brown and the Cure.