Newcastle welcomed the Music of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards for the first time, celebrating nearly 30 years of honoring exceptional talent within Black music. This year's ceremony, held at the Utilita Arena, was the culmination of five exciting days of fringe events including community workshops and live performances across Tyneside.
This year's big winners included British rapper Bashy and British-Nigerian singer Darkoo, both of whom not only took home prestigious awards but also captivated the audience with their live performances. Bashy, whose career spans nearly two decades, secured two awards: Best Hip-Hop Act and Best Album for his latest work, Being Poor Is Expensive. Darkoo also had a remarkable night, winning Best Female Act and the Song of the Year for her hit, Favourite Girl.
The 2025 MOBO Awards were especially meaningful due to the historic achievements of Mavin Records singer Ayra Starr. The 22-year-old shone bright, bagging two awards: Best International Act and Best African Music Act. With her triumph, she set a record as the first African female artist to win the Best International Act, marking a significant milestone after 16 years since the last female winner took the crown.
Other notable artists celebrated during the ceremony included Central Cee, who took home the award for Best Male Act, and Odeal, who was recognized as Best Newcomer. The evening's atmosphere was electric, with multiple performances from today's hottest talents, including Nova Twins, Spice, Krept, and Konan. The excitement was palpable among fans and attendees as these artists showcased their talents live.
The MOBO Awards, established to recognize black talent across various music genres, have grown to include not just awards but also influential performances and cultural showcases. They aim to uplift the voices and stories within the Black music scene, doing justice to the tremendous diversity and depth it offers.
Reflecting on the celebration, many attendees remarked on how the night represented not just the awards themselves but also the spirit of togetherness and cultural pride. The ability to share these moments on stage highlights the importance of visibility for traditionally underrepresented artists and genres within mainstream music. With the event broadcasted live and available soon on platforms like YouTube and BBC iPlayer, broader audiences will have the chance to see these powerful performances and wins.
Looking toward the future, the success of the 2025 MOBO Awards suggests increased recognition and support for artists of Black origin, particularly women. It marks the beginning of what many hope will be continued progress toward equality and representation within the more extensive music industry. This atmosphere of encouragement leaves artists and fans eager for next year's event, ensuring the MOBO Awards remain a key highlight on the annual music calendar.
For those who missed the ceremony, highlights will be available via BBC iPlayer, allowing music fans to experience all the excitement from one of the most significant nights celebrating Black music artistry. The 2025 MOBO Awards not only commemorated the successes of these artists but also served as a reminder of the power and influence of music to unite and inspire.