The MOBOS Continuous To Prove Why It Has Been A Celebration of Black-British Culture For 30 years

Olivia Dean by @moboawards

British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean said that “it’s not just about celebrating Black British music, but encouraging it for the next generation” in a speech after she won three awards at the 30th anniversary of the MOBOS at her first ever MOBOS.

Dean collected awards for album of the year for her sophomore album The Art of Loving, a project that was born out of the want to write about love, song of the year for ‘Man I Need’ and best female artist.

“It’s so important. I think it’s not just about celebrating Black British music, but encouraging it for the next generation”, Dean said, when reflecting on the importance of the MOBOS.

She praised her fellow nominees, particularly in the best female category and expressed her pride at being black British female artist.

Dean also delivered a deeply soulful and serene rendition of ‘A Couple Minutes’, as the room darkened, and the audience was lulled to a hypnotic silence taking in the tranquil performance, backed by the string arrangement.

“I was a bit emotional. I have never sung that song in front of a live audience before”, she admitted to the crowd.

But, “it feels amazing, I’m having such an amazing time”.

The awards, hosted by Hosted by Eve and Eddie Kadi, took place for the first time in Manchester at Co-Op Live.

What else happened at The MOBOS?

FLO by @moboawards

R&B girl group FLO opened the night with a stunning performance of AAA’ ‘and ‘Leak It’, accompanied by well-worked choreography. signature harmonies warmed the nigh The, and then later won their first MOBO win, taking home Best R&B/Soul Act.

Slick Rick & Estelle, Tiwa Savage, Aitch, Myles Smith all performed throughout the night as well, ending with Shenseea.

Slick Rick was honoured with a MOBO Lifetime Achievement Award, demonstrating why his story telling is so revered by setting us on a cinematic journey through his legacy.

Pharell Williams also won the Global Songwriter award, presented by his close friend musican, producer and songwriter Nile Rodgers.

Paying homage to our history, DJ Target curated the ‘MOBO Salutes: Grime 25’ medley with Chip, D Double E, Nolay, Scorcher and Wiley.

DC3, who in his acceptance speech said that he was watching the show at home as a viewer last year, won Best Newcomer and Best Gospel Act, however showcasing his longevity, Chip was crowned Best Grime Act marking a full circle moment for the north London rapper, who won the award 10 years ago. 

DC3 by @moboawards

Jim Legxacy by @moboawards

Lewisham-born rapper, singer and producer Jim Legxacy, who is leading a new generation of UK artist won Best Male Act, and was nominated four times.

RAYE won Video of The Year for her single ‘Where Is My Husband!’, which is off of her new second album This Music May Contain Hope. The music video was directed by The Reids.

Central Cee won his eighth MOBO trophy, with Best Hip Hop Act and in a humorous moment, Kojey Radical sheepishly collected the Best Jazz Act on behalf of Ezra Collective.

Stephen Graham won Best Performance in a TV Show / Film for Adolescence, Nova Twins won Best Alternative Act, Sherelle won Best Electronic/Dance Act, Twin S won Best Drill Act, Wizkid won Best African Music Act, Ayra Starr won  a consecutive won Best International Act, Vybz Kartel won Best Caribbean Music Act, YouTuber Niko Ominala won Best Media Personality, and P2J won Best Producer.