The 2026 MOBO Awards have officially revealed this year’s nominees ahead of the much-anticipated ceremony, which will take place in Manchester at Co Op Live on March 26. The annual event, which honors outstanding achievements in music of Black origin, marks a special milestone this year — the 30th anniversary of the MOBO Awards.
Recognizing the best artists and releases from September 1, 2024, to October 1, 2025, the nominees for this year’s event are led by musical powerhouses such as Little Simz, Olivia Dean, and rising talents like kwn and Jim Legxacy. Little Simz, already a three-time MOBO winner, has received nominations for multiple categories, including Album of the Year for Lotus, Best Female Act, Best Hip Hop Act, and Video of the Year for her hit “Flood.”
Meanwhile, Olivia Dean’s impressive 2025 has earned her nods for Album of the Year with The Art of Loving, as well as Best Female Act, Best R&B/Soul Act, and Song of the Year for her track “Man I Need.”
A Strong Showing from Newcomers and Rising Stars
The nominees also reflect the emergence of new talent in the music scene. Kwn, a promising newcomer, has earned nominations for Best Newcomer, Best Female Act, Best R&B/Soul Act, and Song of the Year for her standout track “Do What I Say.” Similarly, Jim Legxacy has secured nominations for Best Male Act, Best Newcomer, Song of the Year for “3X,” and Video of the Year for “Father.”
Other notable artists on the nominations list include EssDeeKid, Central Cee, Skepta, and many more who have shaped the music of the past year.
Celebrating Diverse Music Genres
The 2026 MOBO Awards nominees span across a variety of genres, highlighting the rich diversity of Black British music. Categories such as Best Hip Hop Act, Best R&B/Soul Act, and Best Grime Act showcase the incredible talent across different musical styles. For example, Central Cee, Skepta, and Kojey Radical are vying for Best Hip Hop Act, while Olivia Dean, Kwn, and Sasha Keable are up for Best R&B/Soul Act.
Additionally, the Best Alternative Music Act category includes some of the most exciting names in the genre, including Blood Orange, Rachel Chinouriri, and Michael Kiwanuka.
A Reflection of Cultural Impact
MOBO founder and CEO Kanya King CBE spoke about the significance of this year’s nominations, reflecting on the evolution of the awards over the last three decades. King emphasized that the nominees represent a powerful reflection of the culture and the moment Black British music is currently experiencing. “The artists we are celebrating this year embody one of the strongest and most diverse showcases of Black British music excellence we’ve seen in years,” said King.
What to Expect from the MOBOs 2026
With the 30th anniversary of the awards, fans can expect an unforgettable celebration of Black British music, showcasing both established stars and the latest trailblazers in the industry. The MOBO Awards will honor the achievements of artists who continue to push boundaries, create powerful music, and inspire millions around the world.
The full list of winners, performers, and the host for the 2026 ceremony will be revealed in the coming months, so stay tuned for more exciting updates on the celebration of Black British music excellence.
Conclusion
The 2026 MOBO Awards celebrate 30 years of Black British music, with nominees like Little Simz, Olivia Dean, and Jim Legxacy highlighting the diversity and talent shaping the industry. This year’s ceremony promises unforgettable performances and recognition for artists who continue to influence global music.
