European industry trade convention MIDEM has announced it will make Peter Gabriel its Personality Of The Year at next year's event. The former Genesis frontman is being recognised both for his music as well as his work in the digital music space - including his previously reported involvement in OD2, theFilter.com and most recently the We7 venture.
Confirming that Gabriel will be honoured at their Gala Dinner on 28 Jan next year, MIDEM CEO Paul Zilk told reporters: "Peter Gabriel is an outstanding musician with an international following of millions. He has also pioneered innovative methods of distribution in the digital environment and has explored new business models for his music and that of fellow artists. Throughout his career he has shown that music transcends pure entertainment and can be put to the service of important issues such as human rights".
Gabriel responded: "MIDEM has long been the central get together for the music business. I am honored to have been offered the Personality of the Year Award and look forward to coming down to Cannes in January 2008".
Previous recipients of the MIDEM Personality of the Year Award include Quincy Jones and the late Atlantic Records chief Ahmet Ertegun.