Highlights of the 2025 MOBO Awards Night
On February 18, 2025, Newcastle's Utilita Arena buzzed with energy and excitement as it hosted the annual MOBO Awards, a staple event celebrating the achievements in music of Black origin. This year was no different, featuring show-stopping performances and a line-up of iconic personalities. The night was guided by the charisma of hosts Indiyah Polack, a television personality and fashion icon, and the comedian Eddie Kadi, ensuring an engaging experience for everyone in attendance.
A star-studded line-up of performers left the crowd thrilled, with artists such as Spice and the dynamic duo Krept & Konan lighting up the stage. Odeal and Bashy also delivered powerful performances, reinforcing the soundtrack to what would be an unforgettable night.
Notable Winners and Unforgettable Moments
Among the night’s biggest stories was Central Cee's win as Best Male Act, earning him his seventh MOBO award—a momentous achievement that places him alongside Stormzy as the most decorated rapper in MOBO history. It's a testament to his continued influence in the UK rap scene, marked by his unique style and commanding presence.
Darkoo's triumphant evening was celebrated with wins for Best Female Act and Song of the Year for her track 'Favourite Girl' featuring Dess Dior. Meanwhile, Bashy's celebrated return to the spotlight yielded the Album of the Year with 'Being Poor Is Expensive' and the honor of Best Hip-Hop Act. His success underscored a compelling narrative of resilience and creativity.
In a historic turn of events, Ayra Starr became the first African woman to win Best International Act and captured the title of Best African Music Act, breaking a 16-year-long absence of female winners in this category. Her achievements signaled the burgeoning international appeal of Afrobeats, which continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Odeal enjoyed a night of recognition too, clinching both the Best Newcomer and Best R&B/Soul Act awards, showcasing his versatility and growing influence in the music industry.
Special honors punctuated the ceremony with the MOBO Paving The Way Award going to Olympic gold medalist Denise Lewis, acknowledging her inspirational journey and contribution to sports and society. Dancehall legend Vybz Kartel received the MOBO Impact Award, celebrating his significant influence on music and culture.
The event also highlighted other genres, with Scorcher receiving the accolade for Best Grime Act, Pozer being recognized as Best Drill Act, and Ezra Collective winning Best Jazz Act, bringing their fusion of jazz stylings to the fore.
This year's ceremony not only showcased the vibrancy and diversity of Black-origin music but also highlighted its fast-growing global impact, epitomized by Ayra Starr's remarkable achievements and Central Cee's unwavering dominance.
Arlen Fitzpatrick
My name is Arlen Fitzpatrick, and I am a sports enthusiast with a passion for soccer. I have spent years studying the intricacies of the game, both as a player and a coach. My expertise in sports has allowed me to analyze matches and predict outcomes with great accuracy. As a writer, I enjoy sharing my knowledge and love for soccer with others, providing insights and engaging stories about the beautiful game. My ultimate goal is to inspire and educate soccer fans, helping them to deepen their understanding and appreciation for the sport.
view all postsWrite a comment