MOBO Awards Founder Kanya King Passes at 57 Amid Reflections on Ghana’s Music Heritage and Creative Excellence

The global entertainment community is mourning the loss of Kanya King, the visionary founder and CEO of the MOBO Awards, who passed away on June 3, 2026, at the age of 57. King, born to a Ghanaian father and an Irish mother, was a titan in the music industry, establishing the MOBOs in 1996 to celebrate music of black origin. Her death followed a courageous battle with colon cancer, leaving behind a legacy that championed diversity and provided a global platform for countless artists. The MOBO Organisation expressed deep sorrow over her passing, noting her tireless work in elevating black excellence on the world stage. As the industry reflects on King’s global impact, local Ghanaian music history has also come into focus through a recent interview with legendary musician Aka Blay. Blay recounted a compelling anecdote involving late icons Jewel Kofi Ackah and Akwaboah Senior, highlighting the intricate—and sometimes humorous—dynamics of the Ghanaian music scene. According to Blay, a dispute once arose after Ackah allegedly withheld a band payment following a performance at the American Embassy. In a unique display of musical discipline, Akwaboah Snr instructed Blay to change the key during a subsequent set, leaving Ackah struggling to match the pitch. This blend of professional rivalry and eventual reconciliation remains a cherished memory for Blay, illustrating the deep-rooted discipline and character within the highlife fraternity. Beyond the world of music and international awards, the spirit of Ghanaian professionalism and creative flair has captured social media attention through the story of a local artisan. A video has recently gone viral showing a carpenter arriving at his workshop in full corporate attire, complete with a briefcase and polished shoes, before changing into his work gear. This display of corporate arrival has sparked widespread admiration, mirroring the dedication to professional image seen in more formal industries. Whether through the global reach of Kanya King, the rhythmic legacies of highlife masters, or the daily dedication of a local craftsman, the Ghanaian narrative continues to be defined by a unique fusion of talent, discipline, and showmanship.