On Thursday, 26th March, The Music of Black Origin (Mobo) Awards made a noble first. Debuting in the rich city of Manchester, United Kingdom (UK), to celebrate its monumental 30th anniversary.
Founded in 1996, over the years, The Mobo Awards has come to be a staple awards ceremony. Celebrating Black talent in the music industry across genres such as jazz, hip-hop, R&B and more.
What went down at the Mobo Awards
Kickstarting the show, with a sensational performance was R&B trio, Flo. A girl group that has been praised for their chart-topping singles and jaw-dropping looks. There’s no denying the concept of pop bands seems like something of the past, but Flo are on a mission to change that.
Opening with “Leak It,” the single that lasted a week in the Official Charts Top 40, Flo introduced the Mobos with a breath of fresh talent. Immediately setting the tone with what today’s generation is doing to keep innovation rolling.
The ceremony was presented by Eddie Kadi, an acclaimed Congolese comedian and host. Alongside, none other than the United States Hip Hop icon, Eve. “Manchester, can I promise you something? This will be a night to remember,” says Kadi
It’s hard to imagine how anyone could follow up from Flo’s performance. Though Slick Rick later took to the stage with Estelle. The latter, a visionary known for her ’08 anthem “American Boy,” with Kanye West. With 40 years of experience, Rick has made a name for himself as one of the biggest storytellers in Hip Hop history.
Famed for colossal hits, “Children’s Story,” “Behind Bars,” and “Documents,” to name a few. Later in the night, he was awarded the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award.’ “Peace and love, kids,” says Rick, after giving a heartfelt acceptance speech.
Moments that shone a light on the history of the Mobos
In 1997, British R&B girl group Eternal won their first Mobo Award. On Thursday night, vocalists Vernie and Easther Bennette returned for a short interview reflecting on that success and what it means now. On the topic of nostalgia, the presenters proceeded to pay tribute to the older generation who have paved the way for rock and roll.
Paying homage to notable figures, Jimi Hendrix, Sistah Rosetta Tharpe and others. Genre-bending punk duo Nova Twins were later announced as the ‘Best Alternative Music Act.’ A significant moment for them, as they addressed an official statement in 2020 for the introduction of this category.
Where it all began…
You can’t celebrate 30 years of an incredible organisation without commending its founders. Kanya King, the genius behind it all, officially launched the Mobo Awards in 1996. On Thursday night, King returned for a speech about his legacy. She says:
