The MOBO Awards, recognized as Europe’s largest and most influential celebration of Black music and culture, are set to take place on March 26, 2026, at Manchester’s Co-op Live. This year is particularly significant as it marks the 30th anniversary of the MOBO Organisation, which has been pivotal in championing diverse musical talent across the continent.
As the 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. Following the main event, an Access All Areas programme will be available on BBC One and iPlayer at 11:25 PM on March 27, allowing fans to catch up on the highlights and behind-the-scenes moments of the night.
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 enthusiasm reflects the significance of this milestone in the awards’ history.
The event will feature a stellar lineup of performers, including renowned artists such as Shenseea, Estelle, Slick Rick, Aitch, Myles Smith, Wiley, D Double E, Scorcher, Nolay, Chip, DJ Target, Olivia Dean, FLO, and Tiwa Savage. This diverse array of talent underscores the awards’ commitment to showcasing the best in Black music.
Among the nominees, Little Simz, Olivia Dean, kwn, and Jim Legxacy stand out with four nominations each, highlighting their contributions to the music scene over the past year. Additionally, Dayo Koleosho is nominated for his performance in a TV show/film category, showcasing the expanding influence of Black artists in various entertainment sectors.
A particularly notable moment during the ceremony 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 the age of 11. His album, “The Great Adventures of Slick Rick,” includes the beloved track “Children’s Story,” further cementing his legacy in the industry.
Kanya King CBE, the founder of the MOBO Organisation, reflected on the significance of this anniversary, 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 statement encapsulates the essence of the awards and their impact on the music landscape.
As the date approaches, observers are keenly watching how the event will unfold and what new heights the MOBO Awards will reach in celebrating Black music and culture. With a rich history and a promising future, the MOBO Awards 2026 is set to be a landmark event in the industry.