Kanya King, the visionary founder of the MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin) and a leading global advocate for Afrobeats, has passed away at the age of 57. She died peacefully on June 3, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with colon cancer, surrounded by her family and close friends.
MOBO Organisation Confirms Passing
The MOBO Organisation confirmed the heartbreaking news in an official statement shared on Instagram. The statement highlighted King's determination and commitment to her vision until the very end. It read: "It is with immeasurable sorrow that the MOBO Organisation announces the passing of its Founder and CEO, Kanya King CBE. Kanya passed away peacefully on 3 June 2026 after a courageous and characteristically determined battle with colon cancer. She was surrounded by her family, close friends and love."
From Council Estate to Global Platform
Three decades ago, Kanya King took a bold step by remortgaging her home to launch the MOBO Awards, despite being told that Black music was too niche and had no market. Within six weeks, the first ceremony was broadcast nationwide, forever changing the British music scene. The statement noted: "She was a single mother from a Kilburn council estate who was told that Black music was too niche, that there was no market and that the industry was not interested. Instead of arguing, she built. Six weeks later, the first MOBO Awards was broadcast to the nation, and nothing was ever the same again."
Global Impact on Afrobeats and Black Music
Under King's leadership, the awards became a global stage for Afrobeats and Black music, celebrating stars such as Stormzy, Little Simz, Raye, Craig David, Amy Winehouse, So Solid Crew, and many more. Her platform reached hundreds of millions worldwide, earning her a CBE and an Ivors Academy Honour in 2025. The 2026 MOBO Awards, marking the organisation's 30th anniversary, will be dedicated entirely to her memory. The statement concluded: "The world was a profoundly better place with Kanya King in it. The MOBO family is heartbroken, but endlessly grateful, proud and inspired by everything she gave to music, culture and future generations. Rest in power, Kanya. You built this. All of it."
Tributes Pour In From Artists and Fans
Many music lovers and celebrities expressed sadness over her passing. Krept wrote: "RIP Kanya a true legend." Craig David shared: "Kanya, your legacy will live on forever through every single one of us you touched with your beautiful heart. We love you." Kane Brown Comedy commented: "What a pioneer for her community. May her legacy live on and inspire generations to come." Alesha Dixon said: "Devastated to hear this news! Gone too soon! Forever grateful and in awe of you and your fight! One of the strongest people I've ever known! You are a true example to us all! Will love you forever! Thank you for everything! Rest well my friend." Misha B added: "Thank you for showing us what it meant to be courageous, brave and fight for what you believe in. For giving so many of us a platform to be heard and celebrated. Today and always we will remember you the Legend! The trailblazer Kanya."
Legacy of a Trailblazer
Kanya King's journey from a council estate to becoming a CBE and global music icon is a testament to her resilience and vision. She not only created a platform that celebrated Black music but also propelled Afrobeats onto the international stage. Her death marks a profound loss for the music industry, but her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
