Robbie – who has already won more of the awards than any other artist - will receive his 16th honour next February, in celebration of his 19-year long music career.

As well as accepting the prize – which has previously been given to legendary acts such as Oasis, Fleetwood Mac and Sir Paul McCartney - the 35-year-old star will close the special 30th anniversary award ceremony with a medley of his biggest hits.

Ged Doherty, chairman of The BRITs Committee, said: "Robbie is one of the outstanding artists and performers of his generation. It will be an absolute thrill to have him at the BRITs 30th anniversary show receiving the Outstanding Contribution to Music Award. We are delighted."

Robbie joined British boy band Take That in 1990 and left in 1995.

A year later Robbie kicked off his phenomenally successful solo career with a cover of George Michael's 'Freedom'.

Robbie has been nominated for 31 BRITs over the years. He won 11 for his solo material and four with Take That.

The BRITs are due to take place at London's Earls Court on February 16 2010.