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Country star Shania Twain will receive the 2016 Women in Music Icon award at Billboard's 11th annual Women in Music gala in December (16). The You're Still the One star will be feted for her "historic contributions to the music industry" at the event in New York City on 9 December (16). "Shania Twain is a groundbreaking artist whose successful country-pop crossover blazed the trail for a new generation of country stars like Taylor Swift, Billboard's 2014 Woman of the Year, and Carrie Underwood," Janice Min, president and chief creative officer of The Hollywood Reporter-Billboard Media Group, says.
"She's fearless in her career, following her own path and pushing the boundaries of the country music genre as she creates music that has proven to be timeless. She is revered in the industry and we are honoured to present the Icon award to her."Halsey, who is scheduled to perform at the event two days before taking the stage at the Nobel Peace Prize gala in Norway, has been named this year's Rising Star award recipient "for her chart dominance and exceptional unconventional talent"."
Halsey is the voice of a generation, someone who is an impassioned political advocate and personal artist, the kind who can have a number one single, as she did with Closer, and not at all be categorised as your typical pop star," Min adds. "Her credibility and talent make her a must-have collaborator for the likes of Justin Bieber and The Chainsmokers." Madonna will also be a guest of honour at the event - she was previously confirmed at Billboard's 2016 Woman of the Year award recipient.
