The 2025 MOBO Awards took place in Newcastle, celebrating Black-origin music across the UK and internationally. The night featured electrifying performances and historic wins, reinforcing the MOBOs’ cultural impact.

Big Winners of the Night

• Central Cee won Best Male Act, tying with Stormzy for seven MOBOs, the most in history.
• Darkoo secured Best Female Act and Song of the Year for Favourite Girl (ft. Dess Dior).
• Bashy made a major comeback, winning Album of the Year (Being Poor Is Expensive) and Best Hip-Hop Act.

Special Honours & Industry Recognition

• Denise Lewis received the Paving the Way Award for her contributions to sports and media.
• Vybz Kartel was honoured with the MOBO Impact Award for his global influence on dancehall and music trends.

Notable Firsts & Historic Moments

• Odeal won Best Newcomer and Best R&B/Soul Act, highlighting his rapid rise.
• Ayra Starr became the first African woman to win Best International Act and the first female to win Best African Music Act in 16 years.
• Ezra Collective added Best Jazz Act to their growing accolades after their Mercury Prize win.

Other Notable Wins

• Scorcher – Best Grime Act
• Pozer – Best Drill Act
• TSHA – Best Electronic/Dance Act
• Annatoria – Best Gospel Act
• 90s Baby Show – Best Media Personality
• Jacob Anderson – Best Performance in a TV Show/Film (Interview With the Vampire)
• Mnelia – Best Video (My Man, directed by Femi Bello)

Looking Ahead

With its 30th anniversary approaching in 2026, the MOBO Awards continue to amplify Black music and culture. Founder Kanya King, battling stage four cancer, reaffirmed her commitment to shaping the MOBOs’ future.