Newcastle set to host MOBO music awards for the first time

MOBO
It is the first time the event has come to Newcastle and will be held at the Utilita Arena on the 18 February next year. Credit: MOBO

The North East is to welcome one of the biggest celebrations of Black music as Newcastle is announced as host of the 2025 MOBO Awards.

It is the first time the event has come to Newcastle and will be held at the Utilita Arena on the 18 February next year.

The move is part of MOBOs effort to expand in the North and take the awards to cities and regions across the UK.

Julia Barthram has been talking to those behind bring the Awards to the North East.

There is flash photography in this report.

Ahead of the ceremony, MOBO has said it will work with Newcastle City Council to bring a fringe festival that features a series of activities and events celebrating Black music.

Local organisations like Generator, Glasshouse Centre for International Music, and Northern Roots will also be involved.

The announcement that the MOBOs will be coming to Newcastle was made at an event in the city on Thursday 3 October. Credit: Newcastle City Council

Kanya King, founder and chief executive of MOBO Group said: “Newcastle is a citysteeped in history, culture, and a dynamic sense of community alongside an electricnightlife, making it the perfect host city.

"We are honoured to bring the MOBO Awards to this iconic destination, eager to deliver a show that will resonate far beyond the North East.

"Beyond the awards night, through the MOBO Fringe Festival, we will be engagingwith the local community to create an inspiring and impactful programme that highlightsthe significant cultural influence of Black music. Newcastle, get ready for a time toremember!”

Kanya King, Chief Executive of the MOBO group said Newcastle was the 'perfect host city.' Credit: Newcastle City Council

The MOBO Awards have been running for almost 30 years, and celebrates Black music around the world.

The organisation believes its legacy has been supporting the growth ofBlack music and culture on a global scale, and celebrating artistic excellence in genres such as Rap, Hip-Hop, R&B and Soul amongst others.

Little Simz won the MOBO for Best Hip Hop act at the 2024 Awards. Credit: Shirlainephoto/ Getty Images

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: “I’m thrilled to welcome the MOBO Awardsto a new home in our region – just the latest major event putting North East England onthe international map for culture.

"I know the awards and the MOBO Fringe Festival across venues in Newcastle and Gateshead will be a huge inspiration for a new generation of young and emerging musicians working here in the North East.”

Councillor Karen Kilgour, leader of Newcastle City Council added: “I am honoured that ourcity has been chosen to host such a prestigious and exciting event. Newcastle is awarm, welcoming and inclusive city. Our city is more diverse than ever before and ourever-developing music scene is a reflection of that.

"We know that being involved in music has enriched the lives of so many people who live here and provided them with opportunities they may never have otherwise had. And this ethos is firmly embedded in the MOBO Awards, so making Newcastle their home in 2025 seems the perfect fit.”

Since its inaugural ceremony in 1996, the MOBO Awards has become a staple in the UK award season and is now considered one of the highest accolades in music.

Over the years the awards have honoured stars such as Stormzy, Janet Jackson, Rihanna, Beyoncé and Jay Z.

It also celebrates rising talent in the music industry.

The Sugarbabes were given the Impact Award at the MOBOs in 2024 for their work and legacy inspiring future generations. Credit: Dominic Lipinski/ Getty Images

Listen to ITV News Entertainment Podcast Unscripted: