Olivia Dean and Little Simz have emerged as the leading contenders for the upcoming 2026 Mobo Awards, which celebrate exceptional contributions to black music in the UK and beyond. Dean’s highly acclaimed album, “The Art Of Loving,” has secured four nominations, including Album of the Year, marking a stellar year for the singer from London. Similarly, rapper Little Simz is also up for four awards for her sixth studio album, “Lotus,” signifying a powerful comeback following her separation from longtime collaborator Inflo.
In addition to Dean and Little Simz, several other artists have received multiple nominations, including PinkPantheress, Skepta, Central Cee, as well as promising newcomers like Kwn and Jim Legxacy. The prestigious ceremony is set to take place in Manchester on March 26, 2026, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the Mobo organization, founded in 1996 by Kanya King to honor music of black origin. The Mobo Awards hold historical significance as the first black awards show in Europe, paving the way for contemporary artists such as Stormzy and Dave to broaden their audiences.
Kanya King noted that recognition from the Mobo Awards is often a springboard for sustained success within the music industry. Little Simz, a three-time Mobo Award winner, finds herself in key categories including Best Female and Best Hip-Hop Act, alongside Video of the Year. Meanwhile, Olivia Dean’s nominations include Best Female, Best Soul Act, and Song of the Year for her hit track “Man I Need.”
Rapper Jim Legxacy, who garnered attention and acclaim from BBC’s Sound of 2026, is also nominated for four awards, including Video of the Year for his single “Father” and Song of the Year for “3x,” a collaboration with Dave. Emerging R&B artist KWN stands out with four nominations, which include Best Newcomer, Best Female Act, Best Soul Act, and Song of the Year for her sultry ballad “Do What I Say.” She expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, particularly after facing challenges in her career.
Sasha Keable is acknowledged with nominations for Best Female and Best Soul Act after making a successful return with tracks like “Hold Up” and “Act Right.” Meanwhile, the vocal trio Flo has received three nominations, including Album of the Year for “Access All Areas,” making history as the first UK girl group to earn a Grammy nomination in two decades.
Competing for Album of the Year alongside Dean and Little Simz are jazz ensemble Ezra Collective for “Dance, No One’s Watching” and rapper Kojey Radical for his critically acclaimed project “Don’t Look Down.” Central Cee, who historically made waves at the Mobos by winning Best Male for three consecutive years, is nominated for his long-anticipated debut album “Can’t Rush Greatness.”
The Mobo Awards ceremony will take place at Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester, with further announcements regarding performers and presenters expected soon. Additionally, a fringe festival will be organized in collaboration with Manchester City Council, featuring concerts, workshops, and discussions, reinforcing the city’s commitment to nurturing musical talent beyond London. This year’s awards promise to be a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the vibrant diversity of black music culture.