Central Cee, Darkoo, and Bashy emerged as major winners at this year’s MOBO Awards, held in Newcastle this evening. The event featured performances from Krept & Konan, Bashy, Spice, and Nova Twins. Central Cee was awarded Best Male Act, while Darkoo took home the Best Female Act and the Song of the Year award for “Favourite Girl,” featuring Dess Dior. Although Central Cee was not present to accept his award, he is now tied with Stormzy as the most-decorated rapper in MOBO history, each with seven awards.
Bashy’s album “Being Poor Is Expensive” was recognized as Best Album, and he also won the Best Hip-Hop Act award. A special award, the “Paving the Way” prize, was presented to athlete Denise Lewis, honoring her contributions as a trailblazer in various fields, including sports and entertainment. She joins a list of previous honorees such as Idris Elba and Sir Lenny Henry.
Vybz Kartel, known as the “King of Dancehall,” received the MOBOs Impact Award. MOBOs founder Kanya King emphasized the importance of recognizing cultural pioneers who have transformed the music landscape, praising Lewis as an inspiration and highlighting Kartel’s significant influence beyond dancehall music.
Odeal was named Best Newcomer and also won Best R&B/Soul Act, while Ayra Starr made history by becoming the first African woman to win Best International Act and the first female to win Best African Music Act in 16 years. Other category winners included Ezra Collective for Best Jazz Act, Scorcher for Best Grime Act, Pozer for Best Drill Act, TSHA for Best Electronic/Dance Act, Annatoria for Best Gospel, Shenseea for Best Caribbean Music Act, and ALT BLK ERA for Best Alternative Music Act.
Additionally, Juls was recognized as Best Producer, the 90s Baby Show won the Media Personality prize, and Mnelia’s “My Man” was awarded Video of the Year. Actor and musician Jacob Anderson also received accolades for his contributions.
