The remarkable music event, honouring some of the most prominent names in the music industry, is set to take place at the Utilita Arena Sheffield for its 26th edition on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.
The event will be welcomed by the city for the very first home, however information regarding the line-up and hosts is currently pending announcement.
In previous years, hosts such as Chunkz and Yung Filly, Maya Jama, and Leigh-Anne Pinnock have been present with notable performers like Nile Rodgers, Craig David, Cat Burns, and various others.
Raphael Dyer, 22, a BAME student and advocate for raising awareness of Black culture said: “Black music is the type of music that brings people together regardless of their skin colour.
“It’s the type of music that holds so many memories.”
When asked about increasing the recognition of Black music, Mr Dyer said: “I think it’s become more popular in our society as our streets have become more diverse. It’s the type of multi cultural music that holds a place in a lot of people’s hearts.”
Since 1996, the Music of Black Origin (MOBO) has been proudly celebrating and elevating Black music in the UK.
Over its 26-year legacy, MOBO has played a pivotal role in fostering the expansion of British Black music on a worldwide stage.
It has championed homegrown talent, establishing the benchmark in genres such as RAP, Hip-Hop, R&B, Soul, Grime, Drill, Gospel, Jazz, Reggae, African music, Dance, Alternative music, and beyond.
Izzy Bates, 20, from Sheffield said:” I love the whole celebration of Black music and culture, I think it brings everyone together.”
“That’s what makes music so special, it brings people together from all sorts of backgrounds and it’s such a cool experience.
“I’m so excited that they’re hosting in Sheffield for the first time, it’ll be amazing to see all the big names in the industry at the arena with the crowds buzzing, it should make for an amazing atmosphere.
“Living in Sheffield my whole life, I know just how big the music scene is here, and this just adds to it. I’ve already bought my tickets!”
Acknowledging its distinctive role in Black British popular culture, MOBO has, in recent years, broadened its scope beyond music to honour talent in the realms of arts and media.
It awarded an Inspirational Award to acclaimed British filmmaker Steve McQueen, Best Media Personality to Chunkz and Yung Filly, and Best Performance in a TV Show/Film to Kane Robinson at last year’s ceremony.
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