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Jazz FM has announced that pioneering drummer Billy Cobham will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Jazz FM Awards with PPL and PRS for Music. The award will be presented at the ceremony at KOKO in London on Thursday April 24th 2025, hosted by musician, actor and comedian Ben Bailey Smith (AKA Doc Brown).

Cobham is widely regarded as one of the most important drummers in modern music history. Revered for his groundbreaking work with the Mahavishnu Orchestra, Miles Davis, and his own solo albums, Cobham’s unique creative vision helped to define the jazz fusion movement of the 1970s and during a career spanning over five decades he has inspired countless artists across jazz, rock, funk and beyond.

The Jazz FM Lifetime Achievement Award honours musicians whose careers have shaped the landscape of jazz through decades of innovation, influence and artistry. Past recipients include Ahmad Jamal, Herbie Hancock, Quincy Jones, Dame Cleo Laine and Tony Bennett.

Billy Cobham:

“It’s been a long, long journey – almost 60 years – and so I’m deeply honoured that I have been recognised in any way, shape or form for my contributions in the small amount that I’ve made to the musical fabric of the jazz community.”

Nick Pitts, Content Director of Jazz FM and Magic Classical:

“Billy Cobham’s influence on the world of jazz and modern music is immeasurable. His visionary approach broke new ground in the ‘70s and his music continues to resonate today. We are delighted to honour him with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.”

This year’s Jazz FM Awards will also honour Jamie Cullum, who will receive the Impact Award, and Melody Gardot, who will be presented with the Gold Award.

The 2025 nominees feature a vibrant mix of artists including Ezra Collective, Nubya Garcia, Michael Kiwanuka, Shabaka, Samara Joy, Jalen Ngonda, Alice Zawadzki, and corto.alto.