MOBO Awards 2026: Full Highlights, Winners and Key Moments from the Night
The MOBO Awards 2026 delivered a memorable night of music, culture, and celebration as it marked its 30th anniversary in Manchester, bringing together top global and African stars.
The biggest story of the night was the dominance of Olivia Dean, who emerged as the top winner. She secured three major awards, including Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Female Act, solidifying her position as one of the leading voices in contemporary music.
Other notable winners included Central Cee, who took home Best Hip-Hop Act, and Raye, who won Video of the Year. The group FLO claimed Best R&B/Soul Act, while Jim Legxacy was named Best Male Act.
The event also celebrated legends in the industry. Pharrell Williams received the Global Songwriter Award, while Slick Rick was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his long-standing contribution to music.
African artists made a strong impact at the ceremony, with Wizkid and Ayra Starr among those who secured major wins, further highlighting the global rise of Afrobeats.
The night featured electrifying performances from top acts, including Tiwa Savage, FLO, and Olivia Dean herself. A special grime performance celebrating 25 years of the genre added to the excitement, bringing together key figures in the UK music scene.
Hosted by Eve and comedian Eddie Kadi, the ceremony combined entertainment with cultural recognition, showcasing the influence of Black music across genres such as hip-hop, R&B, jazz, and Afrobeats.
The 2026 edition reinforced the MOBO Awards’ role as a major global platform for Black artists, celebrating both emerging talents and established stars while reflecting the continued growth and influence of the music of Black origin worldwide.
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