MOBO Awards 2025: Winners announced
The event took place on Tuesday 18th February
Last updated 19th Feb 2025
With award season very much upon us, this year's MOBO Awards graced the North East of England for the first time in history. The big event took place on Tuesday 18th February, where this year's winners were announced.
Here's your ultimate guide to the 2025 MOBO Awards...
What are the MOBO Awards?
First established in 1996, the MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards are hosted annualy in Britain to recognise achievements in black music. The awards celebrate a variety of musical genres, including hip hop, grime, R&B, soul, reggae, jazz, gospel, and African music.
When was it?
The 2025 MOBO Awards took place on Tuesday 18th February.
Where did it take place?
For the first time in MOBO history, the 2025 ceremony headed to Newcastle! The event was held at at the Utilita Arena.
Who hosted the show?
Former Love Island star Indiyah Polack returned for a second year to host the MOBO Awards, alongside comedian Eddie Kadi.
Indiyah Polack said before the event: “I’m so excited to be back co-hosting the MOBO Awards for the second year. We’re going to bring a show like no other before to Newcastle, celebrating the richness of Black music and culture. You can expect some incredible red carpet looks, amazing live performances and of course, great vibes from Eddie and I.”
Eddie Kadi added: “The MOBO Awards is a big part of British music culture and it’s an honour to be asked to co-host this year’s ceremony with Indiyah. There are so many incredible artists nominated and the show is going to reflect the incredible range of the MOBO Awards – from hip hop to dancehall and more surprises to come! Watch this space. We can’t wait to bring the party to Newcastle where we know the energy is going to be electric!”
Who won a MOBO Award in 2025?
The nominees for the MOBO Awards 2025 were unveiled in December 2024, with nominees falling across over 20 categories. Artists Jorja Smith and Cleo Sol are leading the way with three nominations each, as well as the likes of RAYE, Central Cee, Little Simz, Chase & Status, Headie One, Skepta, Beyonce, Kendrick Lamar and more.
Album of The Year and Best R&B/Soul Act is supported by KISS FM.
The winners were then announced during the live ceremony on Tuesday 18th February, where Central Cee become the first artist to be named best male act three times.
Check out the full list of winners below:
Best Male Act
Central Cee - WINNER
Bashy
D-Block Europe
Ghetts
Nemzzz
Sampha
Best Female Act In Association With Got2b
Darkoo - WINNER
Cleo Sol
Jorja Smith
Little Simz
Nia Archives
Raye
Album Of The Year
Bashy - Being Poor Is Expensive - WINNER
Cleo Sol - Gold
Ghetts - On Purpose, With Purpose
Jorja Smith - Falling Or Flying
Sampha - Lahai
Skrapz - Reflection
Song Of The Year
Darkoo Feat. Dess Dior - Favourite Girl - WINNER
Central Cee Feat. Lil Baby - Band4Band
Chase & Status, Stormzy - Backbone
Jordan Adetunji - Kehlani
Leostaytrill - Pink Lemonade
Odeal - Soh-Soh
Best Newcomer
Odeal - WINNER
Chy Cartier
Elmiene
Fimiguerrero
Flowerovlove
Jordan Adetunji
Len
Leostaytrill
Myles Smith
Pozer
Video Of The Year
Mnelia - My Man (Directed By Femi Bello) - WINNER
Meekz - Mini Me’s (Directed By Kc Locke)
Raye - Genesis (Directed By Otis Dominique & Raye)
Sampha - Only (Directed By Dexter Navy)
Skepta - Gas Me Up (Diligent) (Directed By Steveo)
Unknown T Feat. Loyle Carner - Hocus Pocus (Directed By Felix Brady)
Best R&B/Soul Act
Odeal - WINNER
Cleo Sol
Elmiene
Flo
Jaz Karis
Jorja Smith
Nippa
Sasha Keable
Shae Universe
Sinead Harnett
Best Alternative Music Act
Alt Blk Era - WINNER
Bob Vylan
Hak Baker
Kid Bookie
Native James
Spider
Best Grime Act
Scorcher -WINNER
Chip
D Double E
Duppy
Kruz Leone
Manga Saint Hilare
Best Hip Hop Act
Bashy - WINNER
Cristale
Headie One
Nines
Potter Payper
Skrapz
Best Drill Act
Pozer - WINNER
163\margs
Central Cee
Headie One
Kairo Keyz
K-Trap
Best International Act
Ayra Starr - WINNER
Asake
Beyonce
Glorilla
Kendrick Lamar
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion
Nicki Minaj
Tems
Tyla
Best Performance In A TV Show/Film
Jacob Anderson As Louis In Interview With The Vampire - WINNER
Angela Wynter As Yolande Trueman In Eastenders
Caroline Chikezie As Noma In Power Book Ii: Ghost
Diane Parish As Denise Fox In Eastenders
Dionne Brown As Queenie In Queenie
Ghetts As Krazy In Supacell
Jasmine Jobson As Jaq In Top Boy
Josh Tedeku As Tazer In Supacell
Kingsley Ben-Adir As Bob Marley In Bob Marley: One Love
Tosin Cole As Michael In Supacell
Best Media Personality
90's Baby Show -WINNER
Aj Odudu
Chuckie Online
Craig Mitch
Henrie Kwushue
Madame Joyce
Micah Richards
Specs Gonzalez
The Receipts Podcast
Zeze Millz
Best African Music Act
Ayra Starr (Nigeria) - WINNER
Asake (Nigeria)
Bnxn & Ruger (Nigeria)
King Promise (Ghana)
Odumodublvck (Nigeria)
Rema (Nigeria)
Shallipopi (Nigeria)
Tems (Nigeria)
Tyla (South Africa)
Uncle Waffles (South Africa)
Best Caribbean Music Act
Shenseea - WINNER
Popcaan
Skillibeng
Spice
Valiant
Yg Marley
Best Jazz Act
Ezra Collective - WINNER
Amy Gadiaga
Blue Lab Beats
Ego Ella May
Kokoroko
Yussef Dayes
Best Electronic/Dance Act Supported By Mixmag
Tsha - WINNER
Eliza Rose
Nia Archives
Pinkpantheress
Salute
Shygirl
Best Producer
Juls - WINNER
Ceebeaats
Inflo
M1onthebeat
P2j
Sammy Soso
Best Gospel Act
Annatoria - WINNER
Imrhan
Limoblaze
Reblah
Still Shadey
Volney Morgan & New Ye
How can I watch it?
The 2025 MOBO Awards were live-streamed to a global audience on YouTube at 8pm on Tuesday 18th February. Fans will also be able to watch on BBC One on Friday 21st February.
Who performed?
Krept and Konan, Spice and Bashy were the first set of performers announced for the 2025 MOBO Awards.
MOBO Founder & CEO Kanya King CBE said: “We’re thrilled to announce the first wave of performers for the 2025 MOBO Awards in Newcastle. Each of these artists brings something truly special to the stage, and this is just the beginning.
"From the vibrant energy of dancehall to the dynamic sounds of UK rap and R&B, we’re curating a night full of unforgettable moments. This year’s show is shaping up to be one of our most electrifying yet, and we can’t wait to reveal more incredible talent as we count down to February 18. This is a celebration you won’t want to miss."
The second wave of performers were announced on Thursday 6th February, including Odeal, Nova Twins, Darkoo, DJ Ag, Pozer and Leostaytrill, DJ Ace, Jaz Karis, Nao, Sasha Keable, Shae Universe and Shola Ama.
The MOBO Impact Award
On Monday 17th February, it was announced that 'King of Dancehall' Vybz Kartel would be honoured with the MOBO Impact Award.
A social media post read: 'Worl’ Boss. Dancehall King. A true cultural ICON. 🔥
'Your 2025 #MOBOAwards MOBO Impact Award honouree is none other than @vybzkartel! 🏆
'His musical influence? Undeniable. His impact? Unmatched. From redefining the sound of Dancehall to inspiring a global movement, his influence transcends generations'. (sic)
MOBO Paving the Way Award
It was announced on Monday 17th February that Dame Denise Lewis DBE had been awarded the MOBO Paving the Way Award.
MOBO wrote on social media: 'A champion on the track. A trailblazer in sport. A powerhouse on our screens.
'We’re proud to honour the phenomenal @realdeniselewis with the Paving The Way Award at the 2025 #MOBOAwards!
'From making history in athletics to breaking barriers in broadcasting, Denise has paved the way for future generations with her talent, determination, and grace. A true pioneer who continues to inspire. Denise, we salute you'. (sic)
Now check out the biggest tours to look forward to in 2025:
Sean Paul and Ashanti
Sean Paul and Ashanti are teaming up for a collaborative tour in April 2025, playing dates across the UK and Ireland. The tour will kick off in Belfast on 9th April with both Ashanti and Sean Paul, before Sean plays solo in Aberdeen and Newcastle. Ashanti will then re-join the tour for dates in Leeds, Glasgow, Nottingham, London, Birmingham and Manchester, with Sean finishing the tour on his own in Cardiff, Brighton and Bournemouth.
Olly Murs
Olly Murs has announced a huge UK and Ireland tour for April and May 2025. The tour is to celebrate 15 years in music, and he will be joined by special guests Blue.
Gary Barlow
Gary Barlow has announced a huge UK and Ireland tour, with dates in April, May and June 2025. The 'Let Me Go' singer will be visiting 27 locations, performing songs from his back catalogue, including some of his iconic Take That hits. Tickets for the 'Songbook Tour' go on sale on Friday 29th November 2024.
Kylie Minogue
Kylie Minogue has announced her latest tour will be called 'The Tension Tour' and will take place in the UK throughout May 2025. Speaking about her tour, Kylie said: "I am beyond excited to announce the TENSION TOUR 2025. I can't wait to share beautiful and wild moments with fans all over the world, celebrating the Tension era and more! It's been an exhilarating ride so far and now, get ready for your close up because I will be calling Lights, Camera, Action … and there will be a whole lot of Padaming!"
Tate McRae
Tate will be going on her 'Miss Possessive Tour' in 2025, across North America, Europe and of course the UK. She will be coming to the UK in May and June.
Scissor Sisters
The Scissors Sisters are returning for a UK tour, performing in Nottingham, Glasgow, Manchester, London, Leeds, Birmingham and more in May 2025. The last time the band were on tour was back in 2012 with their 'Let's Have A Kiki Tour', named after a song on their fourth album 'Magic Hour'. This new tour will feature Jake Shears, Babydaddy and Del Marquis and celebrate the release of their debut album.
Nelly
Noughties legend Nelly is bringing his 'Where The Party At' tour to the UK in celebration of the 25th anniversary of his debut album 'Country Grammar'. He'll be joined by special guests Eve, Fabolous, Jermaine Dupri and St. Lunatics when he heads to London, Birmingham and Manchester in June 2025.
Nelly is best known for his iconic R&B tracks 'Ride Wit Me', 'Hot In Herre' and collab with Kelly Clarkson 'Dilemma'.
Pitbull
Pitbull will be returning to the UK with his 'Party After Dark Tour' supported by Shaggy. The singer announced the news following his sold out gigs earlier this year.
Sam Fender
Sam Fender has announced two dates in his home town of Newcastle in June 2025, which will follow his tour of the UK and Ireland in the run up to Christmas 2024. He'll head to St James' Park on Thursday 12th and Saturday 14th June.
Dua Lipa
Not only did Dua Lipa delight fans when she announced a new UK date for her 'Radical Optimism' tour - performing at Wembley Stadium in London - but she upped the excitement as she added another date, due to popular demand. She will be performing at the world-famous venue on Friday 20th and Saturday 21st June 2025.
She later announced a date in Liverpool on 24th June 2025.
Olivia Rodrigo
Despite only recently finishing her 'Guts World Tour', 'Vampire' singer Olivia Rodrigo has announced more UK tour dates for 2025. She'll be heading to London's Hyde Park for American Express presents BST Hyde Park on Friday 27th June. She'll also be heading to Manchester's Co-Op Live Arena for her rescheduled set on Monday 30th June and Tuesday 1st July, after problems with the venue forced cancellation at the eleventh hour in May 2024.
Kendrick Lamar and SZA
Kendrick Lamar and SZA have announced five UK dates as part of their 'Grand National Tour'. The duo will be performing in Glasgow, Birmingham, Cardiff and London, throughout July.
Sabrina Carpenter
'Espresso' icon Sabrina Carpenter has now finished the UK dates for her 'Short N' Sweet Tour' in March 2025. The tour was in support of her sixth studio album of the same name. she will returning to the UK to headline American Express Presents BST Hyde Park, in London, on Saturday 5th July and Sunday 6th July.
Camila Cabello
Camila Cabello announced her UK and European tour 'Yours, C', including one date in London on 8th July.
Beyoncé
On the same day as she picked up three Grammys, including Album of The Year for 'Cowboy Carter', Beyoncé announced she would be going on tour. The singer later revealed four dates in London as part of her 'Cowboy Carter and The Rodeo Chitlin' Circuit Tour'. She has revealed there will be four dates in the UK, all in London.
The Script
The Script sold out the first UK leg of their 'Satellites World Tour', which took place in 2024 — but they have now announced several more dates for June and July 2025 taking place at several festivals and outdoor venues.
Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish's 'Hit Me Hard and Soft' tour will be coming to the UK in July 2025 after visiting the US, Australia and wider Europe. The 'Bad Guy' singer will be performing 12 dates in the UK, including in Manchester and London. It follows the release of her third album of the same name in May 2024.
John Legend
John Legend announced his 'Get Lifted 20th Anniversary World Tour' taking place in May and June this year, across the UK.
Cian Ducrot
Cian Ducrot announced in March 2025 he's heading out on his first ever arena headline show! Cian will play dates across the UK and Ireland in July, September and December!
Post Malone
Post Malone has announced one UK date as part of his 'Post Malone Presents: The BIG ASS World Tour'. He will be coming to the UK on Sunday 7th September.
Coldplay
Coldplay announced eight-date UK stadium tour in September 2024. The tour will take place in London and Hull, with two dates at Hull's Craven Park Stadium, and six at London's Wembley Stadium, in August 2025.
Will Smith
Will Smith has announced he is returning to the world of music with his first full tour called 'Based On A True Story Tour', and he will be performing three dates in England in August 2025. Will will take to the stage in London, Manchester and Wolverhampton.
Blackpink
Blackpink have announced world tour for 2025 including cities across North America, Europe, and here in the UK. They will be performing at Wembley Stadium on Friday 15th August.
One Republic
One Republic will be heading out on tour in September 2025. The band behind huge hit 'Counting Stars' will be joined by special guest, Ella Henderson as they head to London, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff and Birmingham for the 'Escape to Europe 2025 Tour'.
Busted Vs McFly
Busted and McFly are teaming up for an ultimate battle of the bands tour in 2025, playing dates across the UK in September and October 2025. The tour is called Busted Vs McFly.
Katy Perry
Katy Perry is never afraid to put on a show, and she'll be doing just that in London, Manchester, Sheffield, Birmingham and Glasgow in October 2025. She revealed in November 2024 that she'll be bringing 'The Lifetimes Tour' to the UK.
JLS
JLS boys Aston Merrygold, Oritsé Williams, Marvin Humes, and JB Gill are going on another tour across the UK in November! JLS will begin in Glasgow, before their final date in London at the end of the month.
Hits Radio Live
This year there will be two Hits Radio Live events in Manchester and Birmingham. This year's line-up has yet to be announced, but you can expect a stellar selection of some of the biggest acts around. Last year we welcomed huge artists including Rita Ora, Teddy Swims, Perrie, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Sugababes, Joel Corry, Tom Walker, Olly Alexander, Sigala, Tom Grennan, Pixie Lott, Clean Bandit, KSI, Jax Jones, and Cian Ducrot to the stage.
Book tickets for Fri 21st November - Hits Radio Live Birmingham 2025 on AXS
Book tickets for Sat 22nd November - Hits Radio Live Manchester 2025 on Ticketmaster
James Arthur
One to look forward to next year in 2026 - In celebration of his sixth studio album 'Pisces', James Arthur is going on a huge tour in February 2026! Starting in Nottingham at Motorpoint Arena on Tuesday 3rd February, the singer will then travel across the UK ending at Manchester's Co-Op Live on Saturday 21st February.
Now read:
Everything you need to know about The BRIT Awards 2025
Jorja Smith: Everything you wanted to know about the 'Be Honest' singer
JADE reveals possible release month for her debut solo album
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