How it unfolded
As the music industry gears up for the 2026 MOBO Awards, anticipation is building around the rising star Myles Smith. Just a day before the awards ceremony, on March 25, 2026, the Ivors Academy announced the nominations for the 71st Ivor Novello Awards. Among the nominees was Myles Smith, who received his second nomination for the song ‘Stargazing’. This recognition places him among a distinguished group of 61 individual British, Irish, or UK resident songwriters and composers nominated this year.
The significance of the Ivor Novello Awards cannot be overstated. They are presented by The Ivors Academy and Amazon Music, celebrating the craft and cultural impact of songs and screen compositions. Kanya King CBE, the founder of the MOBO Awards, remarked, “This year’s nominees are a powerful reflection of the culture and moment we are living in.” This sentiment underscores the relevance of artists like Smith, who are shaping contemporary music.
On the same day as the Ivors announcement, Smith’s new album titled ‘My Mess, My Heart, My Life’ was also revealed, further solidifying his presence in the music scene. The album is expected to resonate deeply with fans, showcasing his unique artistry and emotional depth. With the MOBO Awards celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Smith’s participation is a testament to the legacy of talent that the awards have championed over the decades.
The MOBO Awards will take place on March 26, 2026, at Co-op Live in Manchester, starting at 8 PM. This event not only honors Black music and culture but also serves as a platform for emerging artists like Smith. The awards will be streamed live on Twitch, allowing fans worldwide to engage with the celebration of music and culture.
In addition to Smith, other notable nominees include Little Simz, who has received five Ivor Novello nominations, and Lola Young, with four nominations. This year marks a significant moment for these artists, as they represent the diverse and rich tapestry of British music. The awards ceremony promises to be a vibrant showcase of talent across various genres, including hip hop, grime, R&B, soul, dance, reggae, jazz, and gospel.
The recognition of Myles Smith at the Ivor Novello Awards and his upcoming performance at the MOBO Awards highlights the importance of these events in promoting and celebrating artistic achievement. As Kanya King CBE reflected, “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 MOBO Awards, which continue to elevate artists and their contributions to music.
As the music community awaits the outcomes of the awards, the spotlight remains firmly on Myles Smith. His journey exemplifies the potential for new talent to emerge and thrive in an ever-evolving industry. The events of March 2026 will undoubtedly be pivotal in shaping his career and the future of music in the UK.
With the MOBO Awards just around the corner, fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how Myles Smith will fare. His nomination and performance are not only milestones for him personally but also significant for the broader narrative of contemporary music, where new voices are continually breaking through and redefining the landscape.