The wider picture
The MOBO Awards are known as Europe’s biggest and most influential celebration of Black music and culture. This year, the awards will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Manchester’s Co-op Live, marking a significant milestone as it celebrates the 30th anniversary of the MOBO Organisation.
As anticipation builds for the event, it has been announced that the awards will be live-streamed via Amazon Music UK’s official Twitch account starting at 8 PM. Additionally, an Access All Areas programme will be available on BBC One and iPlayer at 11:25 PM on Friday, March 27, allowing fans to catch up on the highlights of the evening.
Hosting the MOBO Awards 2026 will be the dynamic duo of Eve and Eddie Kadi. Eddie Kadi expressed his excitement, stating, “To be back for the second year in a row co-hosting the MOBO Awards is an honour, especially for its 30th anniversary.” Eve echoed this sentiment, saying, “I’m so excited to be co-hosting the MOBO Awards in this big 30th anniversary year.” Their presence is expected to add a vibrant energy to the event.
This year’s lineup of performers includes a mix of established and rising stars, such as Shenseea, Estelle, Slick Rick, Aitch, Myles Smith, Wiley, D Double E, Scorcher, Nolay, Chip, DJ Target, Olivia Dean, FLO, and Tiwa Savage. The diversity of talent highlights the rich tapestry of Black music today.
Among the nominees, Little Simz, Olivia Dean, kwn, and Jim Legxacy each received four nominations, showcasing their significant contributions to the music scene. Additionally, Dayo Koleosho is nominated for best performance in a TV show/film category, further emphasizing the awards’ recognition of talent across various platforms.
A special highlight of the evening will be the presentation of a lifetime achievement award to Slick Rick, a legendary figure in hip-hop. Known for his iconic track “La-Di-da-Di,” which is the most sampled hip-hop track of all time, Slick Rick’s career began in the Bronx after moving from London at age 11. His album, “The Great Adventures of Slick Rick,” features the beloved track “Children’s Story,” cementing his legacy in the music industry.
Kanya King CBE, the founder of the MOBO Organisation, reflected on the significance of this milestone, stating, “As MOBO enters its 30th year, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary breadth of talent we have championed over the past three decades.” This sentiment captures the essence of the MOBO Awards as a platform that has consistently uplifted and celebrated Black artists.
As the date approaches, excitement continues to build for the MOBO Awards 2026, with fans and artists alike eager to witness the celebration of talent and culture. Observers expect this year’s event to be a memorable occasion, honoring the past while looking forward to the future of Black music.