Peter Gabriel shares passion for technology

By Paul Sexton

LONDON (Billboard) - Peter Gabriel has long been admired as a pacesetter of musical exploration, a passionate campaigner for human rights and a pathfinder in technological development.

That widespread admiration will much be in evidence January 28 in Cannes, France, when Gabriel is named Personality of the Year at music industry trade conference MIDEM (Marche international de l'edition musicale).

The honour from "the world's music market" befits a true man of the world in both music and communication.

It's also the latest in a distinguished collection of trophies. In May 2007, Gabriel received a lifetime achievement title at the Ivor Novello Awards, and a few months earlier the Nobel Peace Laureates bestowed the Man of Peace honour on him.

But far from resting on his laurels, Gabriel continues to pursue new challenges.

The years he spent as frontman during Genesis' most innovative era barely hinted at the inquisitive spirit of this four-time Grammy Award winner.

In the past year, Gabriel has worked extensively to develop more of the globe-embracing ideas that have always been his stock in trade. He spoke with Billboard about some of them and what 2008 holds in store.

Q: How do you feel about being MIDEM's Personality of the Year?