The 2026 MOBO Awards nominations have officially been announced, with an exciting lineup of artists who are dominating the music scene. With the ceremony set to take place at Co Op Live in Manchester on March 26, this year marks the 30th anniversary of the prestigious event.
The MOBO Awards celebrate Black music, highlighting the immense talent and cultural contributions of artists from various genres. The nominees for this year are a diverse mix of established stars and rising talent, including Little Simz, Olivia Dean, and newcomers like kwn and Jim Legxacy.
Leading the Nominees: Little Simz and Olivia Dean
Little Simz, who has already won three MOBO Awards, is once again at the forefront of this year’s nominations. Her album Lotus is up for Album of the Year, and she’s also nominated for Best Female Act, Best Hip Hop Act, and Video of the Year for her standout track ‘Flood’. The multi-talented artist continues to solidify her place as one of the most influential figures in British music.
Olivia Dean is another key nominee this year, after an incredible 2025. Her album The Art of Loving is nominated for Album of the Year, while she also earns nods for Best Female Act, Best R&B/Soul Act, and Song of the Year for the track ‘Man I Need’. With a blend of soulful melodies and powerful lyrics, Olivia’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of remarkable.
Rising Stars: Kwn and Jim Legxacy
Rising star kwn, known for her dynamic R&B style, has impressed the music industry with her debut work. She’s nominated for multiple categories including Best Newcomer, Best Female Act, Best R&B/Soul Act, and Song of the Year for ‘Do What I Say’. Kwn’s distinct voice and fresh approach to music have caught the attention of fans and critics alike.
Jim Legxacy is another breakout star with multiple nominations. He’s up for Best Male Act, Best Newcomer, Song of the Year for ‘3X’ (featuring Dave), and Video of the Year for ‘Father’. His unique fusion of soulful melodies and contemporary production continues to resonate with audiences, establishing him as one of the most exciting acts to watch.
Notable Mentions: Central Cee, Skepta, and More
The MOBO Awards have also recognized other standout names such as Central Cee, Skepta, and PinkPantheress, each securing three nominations. Central Cee’s Can’t Rush Greatness is up for Album of the Year, and he’s also nominated for Best Male Act and Best Hip Hop Act. Skepta, known for his grime influence, is nominated for Best Male Act, Video of the Year for ‘Back 2 Back’, and Song of the Year for ‘Victory Lap’.
In the Best Female Act category, the competition is fierce, with nominees including Flo, Little Simz, Olivia Dean, PinkPantheress, and Sasha Keable. Each of these women has made significant contributions to their respective genres, with their music continuing to push boundaries and captivate listeners.
Also Read: Becky Hill Takes on Acrobat Training for Her Upcoming Tour: A New Chapter in Her Career
Celebrating Achievements Across Genres
The MOBO Awards don’t just recognize mainstream successes; they also honor diverse genres within the Black music scene. Categories like Best Alternative Music Act, Best Drill Act, and Best Gospel Act highlight the range of talent shaping the musical landscape. Artists like Blood Orange, Michael Kiwanuka, and Tyla are among the nominees in these categories, showcasing the rich diversity in Black British music.
International and TV/Film Nominations
The 2026 MOBO Awards also continue to recognize international acts. This year, nominees for Best International Act include Ayra Starr, Cardi B, and Vybz Kartel, reflecting the global influence of Black music. The TV and film categories also shine a light on performances by actors like Cynthia Erivo (Wicked) and Damson Idris (F1), demonstrating the crossover between music and screen talent.
Public Voting Now Open
Fans can now participate in the excitement by voting for select categories at voting.mobo.com. The winners will be celebrated at the 2026 MOBO Awards ceremony, where the industry’s best will gather to honor the incredible talent and achievements within Black music culture.
A Moment of Reflection and Anticipation
As the MOBO Awards enter their 30th year, they stand as a testament to the powerful cultural impact of Black music. The nominees for 2026 reflect not only the current moment in music but also the continued evolution of genres and voices that have shaped the British music scene over the past three decades. With a packed lineup of talent and the promise of unforgettable performances, the 2026 MOBO Awards are set to be an event to remember.
Conclusion
The 2026 MOBO Awards nominations highlight the diversity, talent, and cultural significance of Black British music. With both seasoned artists and rising stars in the running, the ceremony promises to be an extraordinary celebration of the achievements within this vibrant music scene. As we look ahead to the awards ceremony, we can only anticipate the groundbreaking moments that will unfold at Co Op Live in Manchester this March.
