Kanya King, the visionary behind the Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards, died on 3 June 2026 at age 57 following a terminal colon‑cancer diagnosis announced in December 2024. Her death comes as the MOBOs prepare to honour her legacy during the organisation’s 30th‑anniversary ceremony.

June 3 2026: King’s peaceful passing and family statement

The MOBO Organisation confirmed that King “passed away peacefully… surrounded by her family, close friends and love,” echoing a heartfelt family notice that described her as a mother , sister and “heart” who faced illness with courage and huour. The statement highlighted her determination, noting she “refused to be diminished” even as her health declined.

1996 launch : From Kilburn council estate to cultural institution

According to the source, King remortgaged her home while working as a TV researcher to fund the first MOBO Awards, which aired six weeks later and instantly reshaped the UK music scene.. The awards were described as “an act of cultural justice,” legitimising Black music and proving its commercial power to a skeptical industry.

2025 CBE and Ivors Academy Honour amid health struggles

Despite a “difficult week health‑wise ,” King accepted a CBE and an Ivors Academy Honour in 2025, demonstrating her relentless commitment. as reported, she delivered a defiant speech at the 2025 ceremony, telling the audience, “I never allowed someone to define my limits,” just months after revealing her terminal diagnosis.

Tributes from Craig David, Alesha Dixon and UB40

Artists flooded social media with condolences: Craig David called her legacy “forever,” Alesha Dixon called her “one of the strongest people I’ve ever known,” and UB40 praised the “foundations laid and legacy… beyond remarkable.” The MOBOs announced the 2026 awards will be dedicated entirely to King’s memory.

Who will steer the MOBOs after King’s death?

The source does not name a successor,leaving the organisation’s future leadership unclear. While the board has pledged to uphold her vision, the absence of a publicly identified CEO raises questions about governance and continuity for the 30th‑anniversary celebration.

Unresolved questions about the charity’s funding model

Two specific gaps remain: first, how the MOBOs will finance the expanded memorial ceremony without King’s personal financial backing; second, whether the organisation will pursue new partnerships to sustain its outreach to emerging Black artists. As of now, the MOBO statement offers no details.