Kae Tempest to receive Ivors Academy Honour for using voice to inspire cultural and social change

“Writing lyrics and creating music is my deepest joy. I love it so much and am over the moon to be recognised by the Ivors Academy and included in a long line of songwriters whose work I cherish and adore. It’s taken a lifetime to get to the point where I feel strong enough to show up for my community in my lyrics. My music was always the place where I took refuge from the world. But it’s a beautiful feeling to celebrate the fullness of my experience in my work and see that resonating with other people

I’m full of gratitude for this moment and full of love for those who went before me and for those who will come after. I’ve received so much from music and I’m grateful for it every day, how beautiful to dedicate my life to giving with the same intensity with which I have received. I hope I get to do this for the rest of my life,” Kae Tempest said of the honour.

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Roberto Neri, Chief Executive of The Ivors Academy, said: “This Honour recognises Kae’s unique voice and advocacy for the LGBTQI+ community. Every word he writes is genius, inspirational and powerful beyond music. Kae is a beacon of light that informs and challenges in equal measure. I was fortunate to watch his Glastonbury set, which was life-changing, and this award is our way of saying thank you.”

Kae Tempest became an Ivor Novello Award winner in 2024 for Best Contemporary Song with "Geronimo Blues" alongside Kwake Bass, Peter Bennie, Biscuit and Raven Bush of Speakers Corner Quartet, and previously twice nominated in 2020 for Best Album and Best Contemporary Song. They are the second recipient to be announced after RAYE, with both set to receive their Honours at the inaugural ceremony on 2 October, hosted by award-winning broadcaster, podcast host and presenter, Edith Bowman.