MOBO Opens Its Forever Home

The world’s biggest artists from Tina Turner, Beyonce, the Fugees, and Britain’s very own Amy Winehouse, all graced the stage at the Mobos – each creating iconic moments that have paved the way for future generations of talent.

After covering the annual event for decades as a showbiz columnist and watching the magic happen year after year, I am delighted that the Mobos has been immortalized with the launch of the ‘House of MOBO’, a vibrant community hub in South London that celebrates Black culture and reimagines what a modern pub can be.

Photo Credit: David Lim

Word reaches me that South London’s very own Raye, who has won best Female act at the MOBOs in 2024, can’t wait to get down there and experience the vibes herself – as well as other Brit’s school talent that is only a stone’s throw from the venue.

The Mobos was founded by the legendary Kanya King CBE in 1996, the awards set out to “reflect the black experience”, reward “talent and determination” and “honour the past and inspire the future”.

Yet while it was created to celebrate achievements of marginalised groups in society, it often faced unfair criticism in the press which tried to taint the message of hope it intended.

Still, Kanya, with a will of a warrior, carried on, fully committed to her vision, and backed by loyal cheerleaders including the Outside Organisation who have pulled out all the stops to provide positive press coverage it deserves over the years.

The first event was a sit-down dinner at London’s Connaught Rooms, recognising artists such as The Fugees, Tupac, Goldie, Gabrielle and Seal. Over the years top musicians, sports stars and acting legends have all turned up to support the vibrant event, which has been a real staple in our community – and indeed the annual event everyone looks forward to.

A huge party was held last month as the MOBO Group and Greene King announced the opening of a new pub partnership together – with celebs including Eternal, The Nova Twins and more raising a toast on the night.

Photo Credit: David Lim

Opening its doors this winter, the ‘House of MOBO’ will operate at the site of the former Paxton pub located at 255 Gipsy Road in Gipsy Hill, South London.

The new, landmark pub, which is reopening after the Paxton pub closed more than two years ago, will serve the community as a hub for culture, creativity and connection in the heart of South London.

The ‘House of MOBO’ has exciting plans in 2026 as part of the MOBO’s 30th anniversary celebrations. This will be marked with a year-long cultural celebration honouring three decades of championing diverse talent and driving social impact through music, creativity and community.

As a cultural destination, designed to reflect the diversity and dynamism of modern Britain, the ‘House of MOBO’ will host live music, creative showcases and community-led events alongside a destination dining experience inspired by global influences.

True to MOBO’s mission of celebrating excellence and breaking down barriers, the ‘House of MOBO’ will provide a stage for emerging and established talent, while offering a warm, inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome.

To support this vision, Greene King has extensively invested in the pub, including a bold new design and refurbishment, creating a striking new space that embodies inclusivity, collaboration and creativity.

The ‘House of MOBO’ builds on the success of Greene King’s wider partnership with the MOBO Group, which has seen the company already work closely with MOBOLISE, the MOBO Group’s career development platform that connects driven talent to career opportunities, mentoring and professional growth across industries.

The ‘House of MOBO’ is the centrepiece of the partnership between the MOBO organisation and Greene King, underpinning the latter’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Nick Mackenzie, Chief Executive of Greene King, said: “Our partnership with the MOBO Group is all about creating opportunities and opening doors to unlock and support underrepresented talent in our sector, which is why we are incredibly proud to be working with them to launch the House of MOBO.

“This new pub will be a shining example of the important role our locals play at the heart of their communities – providing a space to celebrate culture, champion diversity and bring people together in a warm, welcoming hospitality experience that’s truly open to all.”

Kanya King CBE, Founder and CEO of the MOBO Group, said:

“The House of MOBO is a bold new chapter in our story – a place where culture, creativity and community come together under one roof. For three decades, MOBO has been about opening doors and building platforms, and now we’re extending that spirit into the heart of the high street. This space represents everything we stand for – belonging, opportunity and coming together. It’s more than a pub; it’s a living, breathing reflection of the communities that inspire us. Our partnership with Greene King combines our shared commitment to positive social change. Together, we’re doing more than opening a pub – we’re also opening up opportunities. The House of MOBO will be a home to connect, create, and be proud of who you are.”