Mark King, the celebrated lead singer and bassist of the British jazz-funk band Level 42, is set to receive the American Express Icon Award at the O2 Silver Clef Awards.
The O2 Silver Clef Awards, presented by music therapy charity Nordoff Robbins, have been recognising outstanding contributions to UK music since 1976. The awards ceremony has grown to become a significant date in the UK music industry’s social and business calendar.
The Icon Award, one of several accolades given out at the ceremony, honours individuals who have made significant contributions to the music industry. King’s recognition in this category is a testament to his remarkable career and influence in the music industry.
Born on the Island
Born in Cowes on the Isle of Wight, King embarked on a musical journey that saw him mastering multiple instruments and honing his skills to become a prominent figure in the industry.
His unique slap style of bass playing, described by MusicRadar as the factor that “put the slap in pop during the 80s” became a defining element of Level 42’s sound.
Thunder thumbs
King, who initially started his career as a drummer, transitioned into a bass player after moving to London at age 19. His rhythmic intuition and the popularity of jazz-funk in Britain at the time contributed to his distinctive bass playing style.
King’s musical accomplishments extend beyond his instrumental prowess. In 2015, he received a BASCA Gold Badge Award in recognition of his contribution to British music. He also bagged the “Outer Limits” award at the 2017 Progressive Music Awards.
Enduring impact on the music industry
Although the details of the award ceremony and the specific reasons for King’s recognition have not been disclosed at the time of writing, the announcement signifies another milestone in King’s illustrious career.
Mark King’s acceptance of the American Express Icon Award at the forthcoming O2 Silver Clef Awards is indeed a moment of celebration for all his fans and music enthusiasts worldwide. It underscores his enduring impact on the music industry and solidifies his status as an icon in the world of music.
Recognising and celebrating extraordinary talent
As we await further details of the ceremony, one thing is clear: the music industry continues to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary talent and contributions of individuals like Mark King, who have used their passion and creativity to shape the world of music as we know it.
Another award for Wet Leg
The hugely successful Isle of Wight band, Wet Leg, are also set to receive the Ticketmaster New Music Award at the gala evening being held at the Grosvenor House Hotel on London’s Park Lane at the end of June.
