The gong is given to the Londoner because he is "someone with an incredible body of work who continues to shape their genre and be a source of inspiration to new artists. From the humble beginnings of a new genre to a tidal wave of fans, followers and Top 40 hits, the MC, producer, songwriter, DJ and rapper Skepta is the very worthy recipient of this year’s award."

AIM Awards judge MistaJam (BBC Radio 1/1Xtra) said of Skepta and his achievements: "Since Grime was born out of the ashes of UK Garage, Skepta has been a pioneer of the sound, of the DIY business model and the culture. DJ, producer, writer, MC, record label boss, and performer - there's no denying Skepta has put in the blood, sweat, and tears for the last 10 whole years and now, as he stands on the cusp of true international acclaim, it feels right to award Skepta for his immense contribution so far to British Music.”

The full list of nominees for the AIM Awards were revealed last week.

This year's winners are to be unveiled at a sold-out ceremony hosted by XFM’s John Kennedy and Radio 1’s Alice Levine at The Brewery in Clerkenwell on 8 September.