The Chineke! Foundation is immensely saddened to hear of the passing of Kanya King CBE, last week.
Of the many heartfelt tributes already shared by colleagues across the music industry, one thing shines through - how consistently Kanya used her profile and her platform to speak up for the hidden and often under-represented voices, and for the people and artists who were in danger of being overlooked, in spite of their talents.
This selflessness, and her quest to uplift others and above all, to celebrate and give greater profile to Black British music and culture, is what led Kanya to founding the MOBO (Music Of Black Origin)Awards in 1996, aged just 27.
At last October’s Black British Business Awards, Kanya received a richly deserved ‘Icon Award’. In her acceptance speech, with a beaming smile, that hid the intended irony, Kanya chose to dedicate her award to her careers teacher at school, a teacher who, when the 15-yr old Kanya said that she wanted to start her own business to support and uplift her community, told her, that because she was on Free School Meals, she needed to be more realistic about her choices, and that if she worked hard enough, she might get a job at Sainbsury’s.
Thankfully, Kanya chose not to let her dreams be impoverished as a result of anyone else’s limitations. As we know, through her vision, the MOBO awards, which celebrated their 30th Birthday earlier this year, have evolved into a powerful international brand, that continues to hold diversity and inclusion at its heart. The MOBO Awards have had a transformative impact on British music, celebrating and elevating Black talent across genres often overlooked by mainstream platforms. They have become a vital cultural institution, shaping the UK’s musical identity and inspiring generations of artists.
The fact that Kanya launched House of MOBO, following her diagnosis with colon cancer, is another sign of Kanya’s incredible clear-sighted vision and tenacity. House of MOBO is a new music venue and cultural hub in South London, that reimagines the traditional pub as a dynamic space for live music, creative workshops, exhibitions and cultural events. On the walls of the venue, is a painting of Kanya, alongside her words - “Leave footprints that light the way”.
Kanya’s passing aged 57, feels painfully premature, and we are all left to imagine all the things she might have gone on to do next. What is certain is that Kanya has left an indelible mark on the music industry, on the public celebration of Black British music and culture, and on the hearts and minds of countless individuals with whom she stood in solidarity and support. Her legacy will live on in all of us who continue to strive to light the way for others.
Unsurprisingly, Kanya had a natural affinity with Chineke!’s mission to champion change and celebrate diversity in classical music, and was well known to people within the Chineke! family.
The Chineke! Foundation extends deepest sympathy and condolences to Kanya’s family, friends, colleagues and loved ones.
Farewell Kanya, with love from all of us at Chineke! 🌷🌷🌷