The full list of contenders for the prestigious MOBO Awards 2026 has been officially announced, setting the stage for a landmark 30th-anniversary celebration. In a historic move, this year's ceremony will be held for the first time in Manchester at the colossal Co-op Live arena on Thursday, 26 March 2026.
A Landmark Ceremony in a New Home
Marking three decades of championing music of Black origin, the MOBO Awards will take over Europe's largest concert venue, the 23,500-capacity Co-op Live. The nominations honour work released between 1 September 2024 and 1 October 2025, showcasing a year of exceptional creativity across 20 categories.
Kanya King CBE, founder and CEO of the MOBO Group, reflected on the milestone: "As MOBO enters its 30th year, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary breadth of talent we have championed." She praised the new generation of nominees, stating, "This year's nominees are a powerful reflection of the culture and moment we are living in. Their voices matter — not only in how they soundtrack our lives, but in how they shape the future."
Star-Studded Nominees and Key Categories
The 2026 shortlist is a powerful testament to the strength and diversity of Black British music and culture. Leading the pack is rapper Central Cee, who is nominated for Best Male Act and sees his album 'Can't Rush Greatness' competing for the coveted Album of the Year award, sponsored by Amazon Music.
He is joined by a host of major names across genres, including Little Simz, Olivia Dean, Skepta, Flo, and Pinkpantheress. In the acting sphere, stars recognised for their screen work include Cynthia Erivo for her role in 'Wicked', Stephen Graham, and Ashley Walters.
The international category features global heavyweights like Cardi B, Gunna, Ayra Starr, and Tyla, highlighting the MOBOs' far-reaching influence.
Partnerships with Purpose
The awards continue their partnerships with causes close to the community. Prostate Cancer UK returns as the Official Men's Health Charity Partner, sponsoring the Best Male Act category to raise awareness of the heightened prostate cancer risk among Black men.
Meanwhile, got2b is back as the Official Hairstyling Partner, sponsoring the Best Female Act category to champion self-expression. New for this year, Vevo comes on board to sponsor the Video of the Year award.
Full List of Major Category Nominees
Here is a selection of nominees across some of the key categories for the MOBO Awards 2026:
Best Male Act: Central Cee, Elmiene, Jim Legxacy, Nemzzz, Odeal, Skepta.
Best Female Act: Flo, Kwn, Little Simz, Olivia Dean, Pinkpantheress, Sasha Keable.
Album of the Year: Central Cee, Ezra Collective, Flo, Kojey Radical, Little Simz, Olivia Dean.
Best Newcomer: DC3, EsDeeKid, Finessekid, Jim Legxacy, Kwn, Namesbliss, Nia Smith, Sekou, Skye Newman, YT.
Best Performance in a TV Show/Film: Aaron Pierre, Ashley Walters, Cynthia Erivo, Damson Idris, Stephen Graham.
Tickets for the ceremony at Manchester's Co-op Live are now available via the official MOBO Awards website.
