2025 MOBO Awards Highlights: A Night of Music, Triumphs, and Heartfelt Moments
The 2025 MOBO Awards took place on Tuesday night at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, and it was an unforgettable event full of star power and emotional moments.
The night celebrated the best in Black music, with several artists taking home multiple awards.
Among the biggest winners were Bashy, Ayra Starr, Darkoo, and Odeal, who each won two awards.
Central Cee also made history, becoming the joint most-decorated rapper in MOBO history.
Central Cee Shines Again
For the third consecutive year, Central Cee won Best Male Act, a record-breaking feat that brought his total number of MOBO awards to seven, tying with Stormzy.
Despite his success, the rapper, whose real name is Oakley Caesar-Su, was notably absent from the ceremony.
Ayra Starr and Darkoo Take the Spotlight
Ayra Starr, the Nigerian singer-songwriter, triumphed in a fiercely competitive field, winning Best International Act, beating out the likes of Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé.
She also made history by becoming the first woman in 16 years to win the Best African Music Act award.
Meanwhile, Darkoo snagged the Best Female Act award over competitors like RAYE and Jorja Smith.
Darkoo also won Song of the Year for her hit track “Favourite Girl,” featuring Dess Dior.
Other Notable Wins and Performances
Odeal emerged as one of the night’s top stars, taking home both Best Newcomer and Best R&B or Soul Act.
Bashy, who released his first album in 15 years, “Being Poor Is Expensive,” won Album of the Year and Best Hip-Hop Act.
Other big winners included Mnelia, who won Video of the Year for “My Man,” and Jacob Anderson, who earned Best Performance in a TV Show or Film for his role in Interview with the Vampire.
Special Awards and Heartfelt Moments
The evening also featured two special awards.
Dame Denise Lewis, the Olympic gold medallist, received the Paving The Way Award for her outstanding contributions to sports and broadcasting.
Jamaican artist Vybz Kartel was honored with the MOBO Impact Award for his groundbreaking influence on dancehall music, especially after his release from prison following a quashed conviction.
A particularly emotional moment came when MOBO founder Kanya King, who was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, delivered a powerful speech about the importance of health.
She shared how her battle with cancer had given her a renewed sense of purpose, and was later presented with a second Paving The Way Award.
Performances and Hosts
The evening’s performances were nothing short of spectacular.
Double award winners Odeal, Darkoo, and Bashy took to the stage, joined by the rock duo Nova Twins and British hip hop duo Krept and Konan. Love Island star Indiyah Polack returned as host, joined by comedian Eddie Kadi, promising a night of unforgettable entertainment.
What’s Next?
If you missed the show, don’t worry! Mobo Awards 2025: Access All Areas will air on BBC One on February 21 at 11:25 pm.
Full List of 2025 MOBO Awards Winners:
- Best Male Act: Central Cee
- Best Female Act: Darkoo
- Best Newcomer: Odeal
- Best Album: Bashy – Being Poor Is Expensive
- Best Song: Darkoo ft. Dess Dior – “Favourite Girl”
- Best Video: Mnelia – “My Man”
- Best Performance in a TV Show/Film: Jacob Anderson – Interview with the Vampire
- Best Producer: Juls
- Best Media Personality: 90’s Baby Show
And many more across various genres, from Grime to R&B, Jazz to Electronic, and beyond.
It was a night to remember, celebrating the incredible diversity and talent of Black music and culture.