MOBO Awards 2026: Olivia Dean Dominates While Ayra Starr and Wizkid Shine
The 2026 MOBO Awards made history at Co-op Live in Manchester on March 26th. It was the first time Manchester hosted the ceremony, which celebrated 30 years of the MOBO Organisation. Global icon Eve and comedian Eddie Kadi co-hosted a night of standout performances by Olivia Dean, FLO, Tiwa Savage and a special Grime medley. Olivia Dean was the evening’s big winner, taking home Best Female Act, Album of the Year and Song of the Year. Ayra Starr earned Best International Act, while Wizkid added Best African Music Act to his accolades. Tiwa Savage also impressed with a live preview of her new track. Notable surprises included Little Simz and Tyla walking away without awards despite multiple nominations. The event also honoured Slick Rick with a Lifetime Achievement Award and Pharrell Williams with the Global Songwriter Award, adding weight to this milestone anniversary. Full winners ranged from Jim Legxacy’s Best Male Act to DC3’s Best Newcomer, with honours across genres like Grime, R&B, Jazz and Gospel. The ceremony underscored the global impact of African and British talent.
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