Kanya King, the London born entrepreneur who alongside Andy Ruffell founded the Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards in 1996, has died at the age of 57.

King’s death was announced by the MOBO Organisation in a statement on its official social media pages.

“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 June 3, 2026 after a courageous and characteristically determined battle with colon cancer. She was surrounded by her family, close friends and love,” the post read.

King worked tirelessly to champion black musicians’ contribution to British culture, and funded the first Music of Black Origin awards out of her own pocket.

Over three decades, the MOBOs have become globally renowned for their recognition of black talent – platforming upcoming stars and pushing to break industry boundaries. The Best Reggae Act category was introduced at the first staging, and the first winner was British reggae artiste Peter Hunnigale. Other winners of the category through the years include Popcaan, Beenie Man, Sean Paul, Damian Marley, Glamma Kid, Mr. Vegas, Gyptian, Mavado, Alborosie and Stylo G.

The Best Reggae Act category was renamed Best Caribbean Music Act in 2022. The winners include Shenseea, Valiant and Vybz Kartel.