Malkit Singh MBE is to become the first Asian artist to be awarded a star on the Birmingham Broad Street Walk of Stars.

Malkit, also known as the King of Bhangra, will be presented with the special honour in recognition of his global contribution to Bhangra music. This event will be taking place at Gatecrasher, one of Birmingham's most popular music venues.

The internationally renowned singer has lived in the city since 1984 when he first moved to the UK and began work in a denim factory.  He has always had a passion for music and his talent to write and perform was soon recognised. It was not long before Malkit began a new career as the front man of the world’ longest running Bhangra group, Golden Star.

His trademark anthem, 'Tutak Tutak Toothiyan,' is the most successful and fastest selling Bhangra song of all time and the album ‘Up Front’ won Malkit a platinum disc. Some of his other hit songs have been featured in mainstream films including ‘Jind Mahi’ in Bend It Like Beckham and ‘Gur Nalon Ishq Mitha’ in the film Monsoon Wedding.

In 2008, Malkit received an MBE from the Queen for his Services to Punjabi music. He has also been recognised in the Millennium edition of the Guinness Book of World Records as the best-selling Bhangra solo artist in the world.

Malkit welcomed the news saying, “I am extremely delighted to receive this honour by the City of Birmingham.  Although Bhangra music originated in Punjab (India), it was in Birmingham that it was recognised and has since become popular amongst all communities throughout the UK.”

Broad Street Events Manager, Nichole Samuels, added, “Malkit Singh is a global sensation. His music has transcended to people of all ages and cultures.  I am proud that his contribution to Bhangra music will be officially acknowledged on our golden mile.  He will join the likes of Tony Iommi, Julie Walters, Lenny Henry and Beverley Knight.”

Birmingham’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Anita Ward, will present the star to Malkit on Thursday 10th May at 6pm at Gatecrasher.  At the event, Malkit will perform a selection of his biggest hits.