Event Founder Kanya King Reflects on Overcoming Industry Hurdles, What Makes a Great Awards Show Performer, and Creating a Lasting Legacy
Kanya King is a name that has become synonymous with the prestigious MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards. As the founder and CEO of this renowned music award show, King has been at the forefront of celebrating diversity and recognizing the achievements of artists from the black community for over two decades.
But her journey to success has not been without its challenges. From facing industry hurdles to creating a lasting legacy, Kanya King has overcome it all. In a recent interview, she reflects on her journey and shares her insights on what it takes to be a great awards show performer and leave a lasting impact on the music industry.
Overcoming Industry Hurdles
As a black woman in the music industry, Kanya King has faced her fair share of challenges. When she first started the MOBO Awards in 1996, she faced criticism and skepticism from industry insiders who didn’t believe in her vision. But King was determined to create a platform for black music and artists, and she didn’t let the negativity stop her.
She recalls, “I had to fight for every little thing. People didn’t understand the concept of MOBO and didn’t think it would work. But I believed in it, and I knew there was a need for it in the industry. So I persevered, and here we are today, celebrating our 25th anniversary.”
King’s determination and resilience have paid off as the MOBO Awards have become one of the most highly anticipated events in the music industry, with global stars like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Drake gracing its stage.
What Makes a Great Awards Show Performer?
When it comes to selecting performers for the MOBO Awards, Kanya King has an eye for talent. She looks for artists who not only have a unique sound but also have a message to share.
“A great awards show performer is someone who can captivate the audience with their talent and stage presence. But more importantly, they must have something to say. The best performers are the ones who use their platform to speak about issues that matter and inspire change,” says King.
Over the years, the MOBO Awards stage has seen some unforgettable performances from the likes of Lauryn Hill, Stormzy, and Kendrick Lamar, who have used their music to shed light on important social and political issues.
Creating a Lasting Legacy
As the MOBO Awards celebrate their 25th anniversary this year, Kanya King reflects on the legacy she wants to leave behind. For her, it’s about more than just a successful award show; it’s about creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation of artists.
“I want to leave a legacy of empowerment and representation. I want to inspire young people, especially those from marginalized communities, to believe in themselves and their dreams. I want them to know that anything is possible, regardless of their background,” she says.
Through the MOBO Trust, King has been able to provide educational and career opportunities for young people in the music industry. She also launched the MOBO Help Musicians Fund, which supports emerging artists in their musical journey.
Looking to the Future
As the music industry continues to evolve, Kanya King is excited about the future of the MOBO Awards. She believes that there is still a lot of work to be done in terms of diversity and representation, and the MOBO Awards will continue to play a vital role in promoting and celebrating black music.
She also hopes to see more young people from diverse backgrounds breaking into the industry and making their mark. “I want to see more diversity in all aspects of the music industry, from artists to executives. And I believe that with the right support and opportunities, we can make that happen,” says King.
In Conclusion
Kanya King’s journey as the founder of the MOBO Awards is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and a strong vision. She has overcome industry hurdles, showcased some of the best performers in the world, and created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and empower the next generation.
As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the MOBO Awards this year, let us not only applaud the incredible achievements of black artists but also recognize the woman behind it all – Kanya King. Her passion, hard work, and dedication have paved the way for a more diverse and inclusive music industry, and her legacy
