By Our Correspondent
National News – Olivia Dean shone at the 2026 Mobo Awards in Manchester, winning three major accolades and cementing her status as one of the UK’s most exciting black British artists.
The 27-year-old London singer received the coveted Album of the Year award for her soulful second record, The Art of Loving, beating strong contenders like Little Simz’s Lotus and Central Cee’s Can’t Rush Greatness.
Dean dedicated her win to author bell hooks and the black feminists who inspire her artistry.
In addition to album of the year, Dean claimed Best Female Act and Song of the Year for her hit single Man I Need.
She described the recognition as a source of immense pride, stating she felt “so proud to be a black British female artist.”
The awards follow her recent success at the Brits and a Grammy win earlier this year.
During the ceremony, Dean also performed a soulful rendition of A Couple Minutes, captivating the audience with her emotive vocals.
Other highlights of the night included hip-hop legend Slick Rick, who was honored with a Lifetime Achievement award alongside singer Estelle, performing a career-spanning set.
Pharrell Williams received the Global Songwriter award, with Nile Rodgers praising his influence on modern music.
Best Male Act went to Jim Legxacy, while emerging teen rapper DC3 won Best Newcomer and Best Gospel Act.
Nigerian superstar Wizkid claimed Best African Music Act, and Jamaican dancehall star Vybz Kartel took Best Caribbean Music Act following his release from prison nearly two years ago.
Flo and Nova Twins also took home awards, celebrating R&B and alternative music achievements.
The Mobo Awards, now in their 30th year, celebrated black talent across music, media, and entertainment.
YouTuber Niko Omilana won Best Media Personality, while actor Stephen Graham was recognized for Best Performance in a TV show/film for Adolescence.
The ceremony highlighted the diversity of black creativity in the UK and globally, emphasizing its enduring influence on modern music and culture.
2026 Mobo Awards – Key Winners: Olivia Dean (Best Female, Album, Song), Jim Legxacy (Best Male), DC3 (Best Newcomer, Gospel), Central Cee (Best Hip Hop), Wizkid (Best African Act), Vybz Kartel (Best Caribbean Act), Flo (Best R&B), Nova Twins (Best Alternative), Pharrell Williams (Global Songwriter), Slick Rick (Lifetime Achievement).
