The 2025 MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards, held at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, continued its tradition of honoring outstanding contributions to music of Black origin. Hosted by Eddie Kadi and Indiyah Polack, the event showcased a blend of established and emerging artists, reflecting the rich diversity within the music industry.
Established in 1995 by Kanya King and Andy Ruffell, the MOBO Awards were created to recognize and celebrate artists producing music of Black origin across various genres, including R&B, hip-hop, reggae, and more. Over the years, the awards have played a pivotal role in bringing Black music to the forefront of the British music scene, providing a platform for artists who have significantly influenced global music trends. Notable past honorees include Janet Jackson, who received the MOBO Icon Award in 2004, and Kanye West, who was a leading winner the same year.
Highlights from the 2025 Ceremony
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Central Cee’s Record-Tying Achievement: British rapper Central Cee, born Oakley Caesar-Su, secured the Best Male Act award for the second consecutive year. This accolade brings his total MOBO wins to seven, matching Stormzy’s record as the most-awarded artist in the event’s history.
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Ayra Starr’s Historic Wins: Nigerian artist Ayra Starr made history by becoming the first African woman in 16 years to win both Best African Music Act and Best International Act. Her success underscores the growing global influence of African artists.
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Bashy’s Resounding Return: Ashley Thomas, known professionally as Bashy, was honored with Best Hip-Hop Act and Album of the Year for “Being Poor Is Expensive.” This marks a significant comeback, as it is his second album release in 15 years.
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Darkoo and Odeal’s Recognition: British-Nigerian vocalist Darkoo received awards for Best Female Act and Song of the Year for “Favourite Girl,” featuring Dess Dior. Emerging artist Odeal was celebrated as Best Newcomer and Best R&B/Soul Artist, highlighting his rising prominence in the music scene.
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- Mnelia’s Visual Mastery: Video of the Year was awarded to Mnelia for My Man, directed by Femi Bello, showcasing excellence in visual storytelling.
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Odeal awarded as best Newcomer Jacob Anderson’s Acting Excellence: Best Performance in a TV Show or Film went to actor and musician Jacob Anderson for his portrayal of Louis in Interview With The Vampire.
- Denise Lewis’ Legacy Recognition: Olympic gold medallist Dame Denise Lewis received the prestigious Paving the Way Award, celebrating her contributions to sport, entertainment, and culture and her role in inspiring future generations.
- Ezra Collective’s Jazz Excellence: Former Mercury Prize winners in 2023, Ezra Collective won the Best Jazz Act award.
- Genre-Specific Awards:
- Best Grime Act: Scorcher
- Best Drill Act: Pozer
- Best Electronic Dance Music Act: TSHA
- Best Gospel Act: Annatoria
- Best Caribbean Music Act: Shenseea
- Best Alternative Act: ALT BLK ERA
- Industry and Media Awards:
- Best Media Personality: 90s Baby Show, a comedy podcast exploring the mind of a 90s baby.
- Best Producer: Juls
- Vybz Kartel’s Impact Award: Jamaican dancehall deejay Vybz Kartel was honored with the Impact Award, given to an artist who has been a pioneer in their genre.
Memorable Performances & Star-Studded Audience
The ceremony featured standout performances from rock duo Nova Twins, British hip-hop duo Krept And Konan, and award winners Odeal, Darkoo, and Bashy.
A host of famous faces, including Vick Hope, Amber Gill, and ZeZe Millz, were in attendance, adding to the evening’s glamour.
The 2025 MOBO Awards not only celebrated musical excellence but also highlighted the diverse and evolving landscape of Black music and culture, continuing its legacy of recognizing and amplifying Black artistry on a global stage.
- FULL LIST OF WINNERS
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Best male act: Central Cee
Best female act: Darkoo
Best newcomer: Odeal
Album of the year: Bashy – Being Poor Is Expensive
Song of the year: Darkoo – Favourite Girl (ft Dess Dior)
Video of the year: Mnelia – My Man (directed by Femi Bello)
Best hip-hop act: Bashy
Best grime act: Scorcher
Best drill act: Pozer
Best R&B/soul act: Odeal
Best media personality: 90s Baby Show
Best African music act: Ayra Starr
Best performance in a TV show/film: Jacob Anderson as Louis in Interview With the Vampire
Best electronic/dance music act: Tsha
Best gospel act: Annatoria
Best jazz act: Ezra Collective
Best producer: Juls
Best Caribbean music act: Shenseea
Best alternative music act: Alt Blk Era
Best international act: Ayra Starr
MOBO Paving the Way award: Denise Lewis
MOBO Impact award: Vybz Kartel
