Beyonce, Central Cee, and Ghetts lead the nominations for MOBO Awards 2025

In February 2025, the MOBO Awards will take place for the first time in Newcastle, UK, at the Utilita Arena. The event, which has celebrated Black music and culture since its inception in 1996, has announced its nominations today, featuring notable artists such as Ghetts, Beyonce, Central Cee, and Jorja Smith, each bringing in three nods. This yearly celebration recognizes both emerging talents and established musicians, highlighting the evolution and diversity within the Black music scene. In this year's nominations, Cleo Sol, Sampha, and Odeal are also up for three awards, showcasing a strong presence of women in the industry, particularly in the Best Female category where Cleo Sol and Jorja Smith are nominated alongside Darkoo, Little Simz, Nia Archives, and Raye. The Best Male category sees Central Cee, who has won the award two consecutive years prior, compete against fellow nominees D-Block Europe, Ghetts, Nemzz, Sampha, and Bashy. This emphasizes the continued success and recognition of male artists in the genre. The nominations for Best Album include noteworthy works like Bashy’s “Being Poor Is Expensive,” marking his return after a lengthy hiatus, alongside albums from Cleo Sol, Ghetts, and Jorja Smith. The competition also involves Best Song with Central Cee’s “Band4Band” featuring Lil Baby and other top tracks that resonate with fans and critics alike. The Awards’ recognition of diverse musical styles highlights the growing popularity of various genres including hip-hop and R&B, pushed forward by prominent figures within the industry. Moreover, the MOBO Awards also aim to encompass achievements in film and television, recognizing performances from series such as Netflix's “Supacell” and “EastEnders,” showcasing the multifaceted talents of nominees like Ghetts and Angela Wynter. This expansion into other entertainment fields reflects the broader influence of Black culture beyond just music. MOBO founder Kanya King CBE has expressed her awe regarding the talent seen each nomination announcement, emphasizing the importance of continual recognition and support for Black artists in an industry where inclusivity is crucial.