Legendary singer-songwriter Neil Diamond, 70, has scored a number of worldwide hits since the New Yorker first rose to success when the Monkees covered his song I’m a Believer in 1966.
Recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this past January, the Sweet Caroline hitmaker will be honored with the 2011 Billboard Award Icon Award and perform live at the awards ceremony on Sunday (May 22) in Las Vegas.
The award honors the cultural contribution of an artist whose extraordinary talent, both as a songwriter and musician has stood the test of time. Over his career, Diamond has sold 115 million records worldwide. In terms of the Billboard charts, he is the third most successful adult contemporary artist ever, ranking just behind Barbra Streisand and Elton John.
Diamond’s songs have been recorded by a vast array of performers from many musical genres. Notable artists include Elvis Presley, who interpreted Sweet Caroline as well as And the Grass Won’t Pay No Mind; the English hard-rock band Deep Purple, which interpreted Kentucky Woman; Lulu, who covered The Boat That I Row, and Cliff Richard, who released versions of Solitary Man, and Girl, You’ll Be a Woman Soon.
Hosted by American comedian Dr Ken Jeong, the Billboard Music Awards will feature a star-studded list of performers including Rihanna, Beyoncé, Black Eyed Peas, Lady Antebellum, OneRepublic, and Taio Cruz, among others.