Olivia Dean wins big at the MOBOs

Singer scoops song of the year, album of the year, and best female act

Singer Olivia Dean was the big winner of the night at the Mobo awards, as the ceremony marked its 30th anniversary.

The celebration of black music and culture was held at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena on Thursday night, three decades after the Mobo organisation was founded.

Dean went home with three awards, winning song of the year for her single Man I Need, album of the year for The Art of Loving and best female act.

It comes after she claimed four gongs at last month’s Brit Awards, held at the same venue.

She was also among the performers at Thursday’s ceremony, which was hosted by comedian Eddie Kadi and hip hop star Eve.

Speaking on the red carpet ahead of the ceremony, Eve said: “It feels amazing because the energy is crazy. I am definitely nervous but I’m excited.

“I think without having organisations like this or celebrations like this, I don’t think we would get to see the amount of black music, to celebrate the amount of black artists, it’s beyond important.”

The Mobo lifetime achievement award was given to British-American rapper and record producer Slick Rick.

He told the Press Association: “It’s a great honour. Appreciated me from where I come from, so thank you very much, Manchester. I appreciate the love.”

He took to the stage with singer Estelle for a collaborative performance to showcase his hip hop journey.

Speaking ahead of the show, Estelle said it was “amazing” to be in Manchester for the first time in the ceremony’s history.

She said: “I’m like, what took it so long to get to Manchester? But everything at the right time…”

She added: “We’re here, we’re celebrating us and that’s beautiful.”

The global songwriter award was given to American musician Pharrell Williams.

Manchester-based singer-songwriter Daley, who collaborated with Williams on the 2014 song Look Up, told the Press Association he was thoroughly deserving of the award.

He said: “It was very clear to me why he’s such a successful and such a good songwriter because he really taps into what the feeling of the song is, so he’s very deserving.”

Nineteen-year-old DC3 claimed two awards – for best newcomer and best gospel – and was there to celebrate with his family.

He said the “meaningful” awards came as a shock to him.

He added: “There are so many legends in one room.”

Other winners on the night included Ezra Collective, who won best jazz act.

Drummer and bandleader Femi Koleoso said: “I’m grateful on behalf of me and all my brothers. This is a wonderful thing.

“So, very, very proud and just grateful. Beyond the trophy itself, it’s a very special thing that a name like Ezra Collective can get mentioned and lots of people recognise it and that’s testament to so many people supporting us, from grassroots and championing us.”

Actor Stephen Graham won best performance in a TV show or film for Adolescence.

On the red carpet, stars said the awards continued to be important 30 years after it was founded.

Myles Smith, nominated for song of the year for Nice To Meet You, said: “I think it’s always been important and will continue to be important.

“I think shining a light on music from the black community and the amazing way that we shape core culture and push boundaries is something that’s incredible to do and hopefully long continues.”

Leigh-Anne Pinnock, who rose to fame in girl group Little Mix, said: “I just feel like this is our one show to really highlight black music, so I think it’s super important and 30 years – that’s crazy.”

Published: 27/03/2026 by Radio NewsHub