3x Emmy®-Nominated Artist | Keynote Speaker | The Voice of the "Other Kid from Akron."
Kofi B is a 3x Emmy®-nominated artist, keynote speaker, and the 2022 Grand Finale Winner of Amateur Night at the Apollo. Renowned as "The Other Kid from Akron," Kofi fuses world-class piano virtuosity with high-impact storytelling to inspire resilience and purpose. From being the youngest Black pianist in the University of Akron’s jazz program to serving as a Kennedy Center Ambassador, his "Made in Akron" journey empowers audiences to "Create Their Own Lane." Kofi’s experiential keynotes transform stages into masterclasses on leadership, innovation, and the Apollo Mindset.
Kofi B’s Signature Keynote Topics:
Topic 1: Beyond The Keys: Finding Your Unique Language
Topic 2: The "Other Kid" Mentality: Innovation from the Outside In
Topic 3: The Apollo Mindset: Thriving Under High Stakes
The Performance Keynote Experience
Experience the intersection of Emmy®-nominated storytelling and world-class virtuosity as Kofi B. transforms the stage from the Apollo to the Kennedy Center.
KOFI B.
Genre: Jazz
Years Active: 2018–present
Kofi B. is a three-time Emmy®-nominated pianist, producer, and media personality known for blending music, storytelling, and digital innovation. He rose to national attention after winning Amateur Night at The Apollo in 2022, later making history as the first winner to become the show’s host. His work has earned multiple Emmy® nominations and led to collaborations with artists such as Marsha Ambrosius, Montell Jordan, and the Ohio Players. Kofi continues to captivate audiences as “The Other Kid From Akron,” redefining what it means to be a modern artist.
Career Highlights
Three-time Emmy®–nominated pianist and producer, recognized for innovative digital and broadcast media content
2022 Amateur Night at The Apollo Winner, later making history as the first winner to become host of the legendary competition
Silver Medalist, NAACP ACT-SO National Competition, joining a prestigious alumni list that includes Lauryn Hill and Jennifer Hudson
Founder of BlaBoak Ventures, the media production company behind multiple Emmy®-nominated projects
Selected as Official Ambassador of Engagement for the 47th Kennedy Center Honors, honoring the Apollo Theater
Featured pianist and musical contributor in the film I Wanna Dance With Somebody, working alongside Rickey Minor and portraying Whitney Houston’s pianist
Music Videos
Live Performances
