
MOBO Awards 2025: Jorja Smith and Central Cee Lead the Nominations as Newcastle Prepares to Host the Prestigious Event
The nominations for the MOBO Awards 2025 have been officially announced, and this year’s ceremony is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. British stars Jorja Smith and Central Cee lead the pack with three nominations each, highlighting the continued dominance of UK talent in the music industry. The highly anticipated awards show will take place at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle on February 18, 2025, marking the first time the city will host the prestigious event.
A Landmark Year for the MOBO Awards
Since its inception in 1996, the MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards have been instrumental in celebrating the contributions of Black artists across various genres, including hip-hop, R&B, jazz, reggae, and gospel. Over the years, it has recognized and elevated some of the biggest names in the music industry, from Stormzy and Skepta to Beyoncé and Rihanna.
With Newcastle set to host for the first time, this year’s ceremony promises to bring an electrifying atmosphere, showcasing the best in British and international Black music talent. The city, known for its passionate music fans, is expected to welcome a star-studded lineup of artists, industry professionals, and fans eager to witness the crowning of this year’s winners.
The Top Contenders
Jorja Smith, the celebrated singer-songwriter, has secured nominations in key categories, including Best Female Act and Album of the Year for her critically acclaimed project Falling Or Flying. Since breaking onto the scene with her soulful sound and distinctive voice, Smith has continued to captivate audiences worldwide.
Central Cee, one of the UK’s most successful rappers in recent years, is nominated for Best Male Act, as well as Song of the Year for Band4band, his collaboration with Lil Baby. Despite not having released a full-length album yet, Central Cee’s influence on the UK rap scene is undeniable, with a growing international fanbase and numerous chart-topping hits.
Other prominent nominees include Bashy, D-Block Europe, Ghetts, Nemzzz, and Sampha, all of whom are in the running for Best Male Act. The Best Female Act category features a strong lineup of talent, with Cleo Sol, Darkoo, Little Simz, Nia Archives, and Raye competing alongside Jorja Smith.
Album of the Year: A Tight Race
The Album of the Year category is packed with standout projects that have defined the past year in music. The nominees include:
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Bashy – Being Poor Is Expensive
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Cleo Sol – Gold
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Ghetts – On Purpose, With Purpose
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Jorja Smith – Falling Or Flying
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Sampha – Lahai
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Skrapz – Reflection
Each of these albums has received critical and commercial success, showcasing a diverse range of sounds, themes, and storytelling. Whether it’s Ghetts’ lyrical depth, Sampha’s genre-bending artistry, or Jorja Smith’s soul-infused melodies, the competition in this category is fiercer than ever.
The Best Song of the Year Contenders
The MOBO Awards have always highlighted the best singles that have resonated with audiences over the year. The Song of the Year nominees for 2025 include:
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Chase & Status feat. Stormzy – Backbone
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Darkoo feat. Dess Dior – Favourite Girl
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Central Cee feat. Lil Baby – Band4band
These tracks have dominated airwaves and streaming charts, cementing their place as some of the year’s biggest hits. With a mix of high-energy rap anthems and genre-blending collaborations, this category will be one to watch closely.
International Talent Shines
The MOBO Awards not only recognize UK-based artists but also celebrate global Black talent. This year’s Best International Act category features an impressive lineup, with nominees including:
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Beyoncé
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Nicki Minaj
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Megan Thee Stallion
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Burna Boy
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Drake
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Tems
These artists have consistently pushed boundaries and achieved international success, making significant contributions to the global music landscape.
What to Expect from the Ceremony
With a star-studded nominee list, the MOBO Awards 2025 is expected to be a night to remember. The ceremony will feature live performances from some of the biggest names in music, high-profile presenters, and special tributes celebrating the impact of Black music.
Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, with its capacity to host over 11,000 people, is set to provide a grand stage for this celebration of musical excellence. Fans can expect unforgettable performances, surprise collaborations, and emotional award acceptances as artists are honored for their contributions to the industry.
The MOBO Legacy
The MOBO Awards have played a crucial role in highlighting the achievements of Black artists in the UK and beyond. Past winners have included legends such as Amy Winehouse, Dizzee Rascal, and Ms. Dynamite, alongside newer stars like Stormzy and Dave.
The platform has also been instrumental in driving change within the industry, advocating for greater representation and recognition of Black artists in mainstream music spaces. As the awards continue to evolve, they remain a vital institution in celebrating the creativity and influence of Black music.
Final Thoughts
With its rich history and reputation for honoring groundbreaking artists, the MOBO Awards 2025 is set to be an unmissable event. Jorja Smith and Central Cee’s nominations highlight the depth of talent in the UK music scene, while the presence of international heavyweights ensures a global appeal. As Newcastle gears up to host for the first time, the anticipation for this year’s ceremony continues to build.
The countdown is on for February 18, 2025, when the music world will turn its attention to Newcastle for a night of celebration, recognition, and unforgettable performances. Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to one of the biggest nights in Black music.