LONDON (AP) — Kiss co-frontman Gene Simmons is taking center stage at London's Roundhouse as host of The Classic Rock Roll of Honor 2011.

The charismatic rocker says London will become the "center of the rock & roll universe" Wednesday night as musical giants including The Who and Queen roll into town.

The awards ceremony is in its seventh year. In the past, its prestigious Living Legend prize has gone to the likes of Iggy Pop, Alice Cooper and Jimmy Page. This year it's being awarded to the multi-Grammy award-winning guitarist Jeff Beck.

Readers of Classic Rock magazine have been invited to vote for their favorites in 5 categories: Best New Band, Album of the Year, Band of the Year, Film/DVD and Reissue of the Year.

Foo Fighters and Iron Maiden have made the shortlist for the coveted Band of the Year award. They are up against Metallica, Black Country Communion and the Michael Monroe Band.