Kae Tempest to receive an Ivors Academy honour for inspiring cultural and social change through storytelling

01 September 2025 - Press release

EDITH BOWMAN ANNOUNCED AS HOST OF THE INAUGURAL IVORS ACADEMY HONOURS 
 
THE CEREMONY TO TAKE PLACE AT THE INTERCONTINENTAL PARK LANE ON 2 OCTOBER 2025 

  

The Ivors Academy has announced that Ivor Novello Award-winning songwriter, poet and recording artist Kae Tempest will receive an Ivors Academy Honour in recognition of his impactful artistry that sparks discussion, inspires change and gives voice to causes shaping society. The Academy has also revealed that broadcaster Edith Bowman will host the inaugural ceremony at the InterContinental London Park Lane on Thursday 2 October 2025. 

The Ivors Academy Honours celebrate the advocates and innovators who champion songwriters and composers, helping to build a stronger, fairer and more inclusive music industry. Continuing the legacy of the Gold Badge Awards, first held in 1974, and previously awarded to figures such as songwriter and campaigner Carla Marie Williams MBE, politician Kevin Brennan, Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis CBE and activist and artist Bob Geldof, the Honours recognise music creators and executives setting higher standards across the sector. 

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, Kae Tempest has established himself as one of the most distinctive and fearless storytellers of his generation. With a body of work spanning music, poetry, theatre and literature, Kae’s singular songwriting voice inspires, challenges and connects with audiences across the world. From confronting difficult truths to offering hope in uncertain times, he has used his craft to spark vital conversations and drive change. 

Kae Tempest said: “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.” 

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 is 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. Known for her passion for music and championing the stories behind the songs, Edith has worked with the BBC, Channel 4, Sky Arts and MTV, and is also the creator of the acclaimed podcast Soundtracking with Edith Bowman, exploring the relationship between music and film with leading artists, composers and directors. 

 

Tickets for The Ivors Academy Honours 2025 are now on sale with a 50% reduction for Professional members.