Coldplay win top world music gong

Coldplay's album went straight to number one in June In Pictures: World Music Awards

Coldplay have been named as the world's top-selling act of 2008 at the World Music Awards (WMAs) in Monaco.

Their latest album, Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends, topped charts in countries including Britain, the US, Japan, Germany and France.

The group, fronted by Chris Martin, were also named rock act of the year.

The best pop female award went to Leona Lewis, who outsold Madonna and Mariah Carey, while US singer Kid Rock won best pop male.

Outstanding contribution

Kid Rock, who was once married to Pamela Anderson, also scooped the prize for best male pop/rock artist.

Singer Amy Winehouse won the female pop/rock award.

Beyonce performed at the ceremony in Monte Carlo

Alicia Keys was best R&B artist while Lewis also won the new artist prize.

Beyonce, who performed at the ceremony, took home the outstanding contribution to the arts award while the special achievement prize went to pop diva Mariah Carey.

Lil' Wayne was named top hip-hop/rap artist top and Akon was crowned biggest internet artist of the year.

Ringo Starr picked up the diamond award on behalf of The Beatles.

The prize was created in 2001 to honour artists who have sold more than 100 million albums.

Michael Jackson performed at the 2006 ceremony, which took place in London.

The awards, based on worldwide sales, take place every year.

Record figures are provided by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), a London-based body representing the recording industry.