Bashy, Darkoo, and Central Cee Lead the Way at the 2025 MOBO Awards
Bashy, Darkoo, and Central Cee Lead the Way at the 2025 MOBO Awards
The 2025 MOBO Awards, held on February 18 at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, celebrated outstanding achievements in Black music and culture. The ceremony honored artists across various genres, with Central Cee, Darkoo, and Bashy emerging as the night’s top winners.
Central Cee’s Historic Achievement
Central Cee was named Best Male Act, marking his second consecutive win in this category. This accolade ties him with Stormzy as the most-decorated rapper in MOBO Awards history, each with seven awards. His notable tracks include “Sprinter” featuring Dave and the solo single “Doja.”
Darkoo’s Dual Triumph
British-Nigerian rapper and singer Darkoo secured two awards: Best Female Act and Song of the Year for “Favourite Girl” featuring Dess Dior. This recognition underscores her growing influence in the music industry.
Bashy’s Return to the Spotlight
After a 17-year hiatus, rapper and actor Bashy made a significant comeback by winning Best Hip-Hop Act and Album of the Year for “Being Poor Is Expensive.” The album delves into themes of race, mental health, and working-class life in northwest London.
Special Awards and Honorees
The ceremony also honored two distinguished individuals with the Paving the Way Award:
- Kanya King: The founder of the MOBO Awards, Kanya King, was surprised with the Paving the Way Award during the ceremony. In her acceptance speech, she expressed gratitude and resilience, stating, “There was a time I didn’t think I’d make it to the stage, but I’ve never allowed someone else to define my limits.”
- Dame Denise Lewis OBE: The Olympic gold medallist and broadcaster received the Paving the Way Award for her contributions to sport and media. Her achievements have paved the way for future generations in athletics and beyond.
Additionally, Jamaican dancehall deejay Vybz Kartel was honored with the Impact Award, recognizing his pioneering influence in the dancehall genre.
Other Notable Winners
The 2025 MOBO Awards also celebrated excellence in various categories:
- Best Newcomer: Odeal
- Best R&B/Soul Act: Odeal
- Best International Act: Ayra Starr
- Best African Music Act: Ayra Starr
- Best Hip-Hop Act: Bashy
- Best Grime Act: Scorcher
- Best Drill Act: Pozer
- Best Electronic/Dance Music Act: TSHA
- Best Gospel Act: Annatoria
- Best Jazz Act: Ezra Collective
- Best Producer: Juls
- Best Caribbean Music Act: Shenseea
- Best Alternative Music Act: ALT BLK ERA
- Best Media Personality: 90s Baby Show
- Best Performance in a TV Show/Film: Jacob Anderson as Louis in “Interview With The Vampire”
- Video of the Year: Mnelia for “My Man” (directed by Femi Bello)
The event featured performances by artists such as Nova Twins, Krept & Konan, and award winners Odeal, Darkoo, and Bashy, highlighting the vibrant talent within the Black music community.
