The Specials get NME honour

Feb 1, 2010, 13:24 GMT

The Specials are to receive the Outstanding Contribution prize at this year's NME Awards.

The British ska band - whose career has spanned over 30 years and who are known for their political lyrics - will be presented with the prestigious accolade at the music magazine's annual ceremony on February 24 at London's 02 Academy Brixton.

The band - fronted by Terry Hall - will close the event with a performance of their biggest hits, which include 'Ghost Town', 'Too Much Too Young' and 'Rat Race'.

In recognition of the Teenage Cancer Trust's work, NME has renamed the accolade The Teenage Cancer Trust Outstanding Contribution To Music Award.

NME Editor Krissi Murison said: "There are few bands you can truly call revolutionary, but The Specials are certainly one of them. After 30 years of entertaining and inspiring in equal measure, it is an honour to have them at the NME Awards."

Other nominees at this year's NME Awards include Arctic Monkeys who are up for seven accolades and Kasabian who have six nominations.

It was also announced today (01.02.10) The Specials will perform at one of this year's Teenage Cancer Trust concerts on March 29.

The charity was created ten years ago by The Who and aims to provide specialist teenage cancer units at UK hospitals. It has so far raised over £8.7 million.

Other acts confirmed to perform this year include Noel Gallagher - who will be playing his first shows since quitting Oasis - Depeche Mode, Arctic Monkeys and The Who.