The Homecoming, as MOBOs marks 30 years with epic celebration.

It is not every day you get the iconic Pharrell Williams, Estelle and Tiwa Savage under one roof. So needless to say the audience of music lovers were more than Happy with the MOBOs 30th year anniversary celebrations.

PHARRELL – PHOTO CREDIT @moboawards MOBO Organisation

After three decades at the forefront of honouring the best talent from the diaspora, every move and every invite was intentional as Kanya King CBE, Founder and CEO of the MOBO Group, pulled out the stops to make it one of the most memorable shows yet.

KANYA KING – – PHOTO CREDIT @moboawards MOBO Organisation

Indeed, it was a homecoming for Britain’s finest export Estelle, who was over the moon to be back on British soil, after being welcomed across the pond with open arms as an American Girl.

Reflecting on her incredible journey, the Grammy Award winning star, who became a household name thanks to hits including 1980 and American Boy, as well as starring on the big screen, told me of her inspiration.

“Growing up in the 80s, I loved there existed punk rock and reggae music. And that you could wear shell suits. Several shell suits. The bum bags are back… but I cannot do that again. Unless they are real authentic ones. I would cheat at connect 4 and I would win, “ she laughed.

ESTELLE – PHOTO CREDIT @moboawards MOBO Organisation

Estelle said she considered being a lawyer, had it not have been her love for music pulling her back to the studio every time.

“If I hadn’t been in music… I’d be doing music. Anytime I’ve moved away from it my life hasn’t been fun. My life would have been boring.I am so grateful for my journey.“

It was little surprise then that Kanya was determined to celebrate Estelle and her achievements on the night. Speaking at the event at Manchester’s Co-op Live, Kanya said:

“Thirty years ago, the MOBO Organisation was born out of a desire to create space where there was none okay to recognise, celebrate and elevate Black music and culture . Tonight in Manchester, we’ve seen just how far that vision has come. From global icons to the next generation of trailblazers, this stage continues to be a home for excellence, creativity and truth.

“This isn’t just a celebration of the past, yeah it’s a statement about the future. MOBO remains an important platform, and we are more committed than ever to opening doors, breaking barriers and championing the voices that shape culture around the world.”

Fresh from her Grammy and Brit Awards win, Olivia Dean graced the ceremony on the night yeah yeahand was in great company.

Jim Legxacy, RAYE and Central Cee were among the top winners at the MOBO Awards 2026 too.

It wasn’t a question of Who’s that girl when it came to the host, Eve was the toast of the ceremony as she paired up with Strictly Come Dancing legend Eddie Kadi, as they brought the party from Manchester’s Co-op Live to the world with an unparalleled evening of live music with legends, global and homegrown music stars befitting of a celebration to mark 30 years of the MOBO Organisation.

The star-studded ceremony brought together cultural forces from the world of music, sport and entertainment, including Pharrell Williams, Nile Rodgers, Denise Lewis DBE, Tinie Tempah, Alesha Dixon, Stephen Graham, and more.

Audiences from across the globe tuned in to the livestream on Twitch, the Amazon Music UK channel.

They were treated to live performances by Olivia Dean, FLO, Slick Rick and Estelle, Tiwa Savage, Aitch, Myles Smith, Shenseea and the Grime medley with Chip, D Double E, Nolay, Scorcher and Wiley, curated by DJ Target.

Olivia Dean scooped three major awards Awards. Album of The Year in association with Amazon Music for The Art of Loving, Song of The Year in association with 1664 Bière for ‘Man I Need’, and Best Female Act in association with got2b.

RAYE won Video of The Year in association with VEVO for ‘Where Is My Husband!’, directed by The Reids.

This is the first major award win for RAYE’s latest chapter in music, landing on the night before the release of her second album This Music May Contain Hope.

Central Cee already one of the most decorated rappers in MOBO history won Best Hip Hop Act, his eighth MOBO trophy.

FLO celebrated their first MOBO win, taking home Best R&B/Soul Act in association with Huda Beauty.

Elsewhere, critically-lauded group Ezra Collective won Best Jazz Act and Stephen Graham got a standing ovation as he won Best Performance in a TV Show / Film for Adolescence.

STEPHEN GRAHAM – – PHOTO CREDIT @moboawards MOBO Organisation

Over the years the Mobos have welcomed the world’s biggest stars including the late Tina Turner and Amy Winehouse.

They launched the ‘House of MOBO’ with exciting plans for 2026 as part of the MOBO’s 30th anniversary celebrations.

MOBO Opens Its Forever Home

They have planned 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 venue 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 invested in the pub, including a bold new design and refurbishment, creating a striking new space that embodies inclusivity, collaboration and creativity, a cultural hub in the heart of South London.

Can’t wait to see what is next for the legacy of the MOBOs.