Pauline Black will receive an Outstanding Contribution to Music Award at the 2026 Independent Music Awards.

The singer, 72, is best known as the frontwoman of the band The Selecter, putting her at the forefront of the 2 Tone ska revival in the late 1970s.

Black said: “Thank you so much to the Independent Music Awards presented by AIM for recognising my contribution to music.

“I started my career on an independent label, 2-Tone, because it fitted who I was perfectly: bringing together the best of black music with the best of white music in 1979, mixing it up to make something new – a hybrid, just like me.

“Forty-seven years later, I’m still making music with people I trust, still mixing it up and spreading the same message: we are better together than divided.

“My advice? Make your music. Let it find your people. And always know your purpose for standing on a stage.”

Black will also perform live at the ceremony with The Selecter, alongside newly announced performers Jalen Ngonda and Naima Bock.

Black, whose real name is Belinda Magnus, began performing with The Selecter in 1979.

The band split in 1982 but have reformed sporadically since 1994.

Black developed an acting career, appearing on shows including The Bill and Hollyoaks, and performed with the Gorillaz on their Humanz tour.

She was given an OBE in 2022 for services to entertainment.

The Outstanding Contribution to Music award recognises artists who have made key cultural contributions through their music, particularly those operating within the independent sector.

Black joins previously announced honourees Fabio & Grooverider, who will receive the Innovator Award in recognition of their pioneering impact on UK music and dance culture.

The awards will take place at London’s Roundhouse on September 22.