Jaya-Marie Thomas
Within the UK, the MOBO Awards stands out as a leading light of celebration in the effulgent tapestry of the music industry. MOBO stands for ‘Music of Black Origin’. It began in 1996, showcasing genres from Hip-Hop, RnB to Reggae and Jazz; whilst echoing empowerment and recognition for all Black artists. It is an annual event dedicated to honouring the incredible achievements of artists from the Black Diaspora. The significance of the MOBO Awards brings together a community filled with black-minds who want to explore how this platform contributes to broader cultural knowledge, acknowledgement, and celebration of Black British musical talents.
Aged eighteen, MOBO 2024 was my first time attending the event, or anything similar held in my university town, Sheffield. A plethora of black faces stood out, some of whom I recognised as journalists. I was impressed. It was a heady affair, especially seated within touching distance of so many stars. Black artistes have often been underrepresented and overlooked in mainstream award ceremonies. MOBO took that leap to provide a dedicated space, where Black musicians can showcase their talents and shine; thus fostering a sense of pride and validation within the community. MOBO’s achievement filled me with great pride. Moreso, as my ‘journalist idol’, Charlene White was in attendance. It felt really good to see a Black woman, widely recognised amongst the Black British Entertainment Industry, welcoming Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill DBE OLY to the stage, promoting Black Female Excellence.
Representation goes beyond a simple acknowledgment. It sends a message to aspiring artistes that their voices, stories and God-given talents will not only be recognised within small spaces but also celebrated on a world stage to inspire others. MOBO is a canon event that is crucial for breaking down barriers and inspiring the next generation of Black artistes to pursue their goals with unwavering determination. With me at the MOBOs was my friend, Breanna Osbee, who remarked:
“It was great to see a lot of my favourite music artists that I grew up listening to receive the attention and recognition that they deserve. For example, Flo, Bugzy Malone, Ghetts etc. A few celebrities had waved at us too which was lovely to see that even though they had achieved so much, they were still able to hold humility and grace towards their fans. I would love to go again.”
Diversity is a melting pot:
Black music is a melting pot of sounds that define the music, as there is no singular narrative, but rather a kaleidoscope of expressions that will resonate with people from various backgrounds. In order to reach those backgrounds they must showcase music that has originated from Black culture, that has now fused within British Culture. MOBO reclaims that originality and amplifies it on a grand scale; for example: British RnB group, Soul II Soul. Their inventiveness influenced; some might even say spawned Grime and Garage artists such as Craig David, Roy Davis Jr. and Sweet Female Attitude..
Co-host Babatunde Aleshe had interviewed the Musical Legend Jazzy B from Soul II Soul about what his favourite part of his career was and why? He replied:
“My favourite part of my career would be watching the next generation come through and utilise all of the skills that were there before, to create new innovative music.”
These venerable trail blazers paid tribute to 30 years of Garage, and it felt joyous looking around, and seeing these beaming Black faces reliving their younger years. And pridefully realising that Black music is one of the universal languages of Global Blackness.
MOBO Redefines Success:
Artistes of African descent have used their craft and flair, to address social issues and challenge systemic injustices, by telling stories about race, identity and equality. Not only does this spread awareness of our struggles; but MOBO fosters a sense of unity and solidarity among diverse audiences. A good example of this is Indiyah Polack from Love Island Season 8 2022, who has Jamaican ancestry.
Indiyah is a prime example of breaking stereotypes. Historically, the popular TV Show, ‘Love Island’ is known for mistreating their Black contestants as a Black couple has never won the series. Many people think she was robbed by being unfairly placed third. But Indiyah has since managed to turn third place into first class success. She now has brand deals with Pretty Little Thing and Boots. She hosted MOBO 2024, and set an example to Black women in the UK, that having dark-skin should not have to keep Black women down. We can break through barriers, and defeat our detractors.
The MOBO Awards already plays an important role in breaking down stereotypes affecting Black artistes. MOBO proves that success in the music industry cannot be restricted or confined to a specific race, image or genre. MOBO gives Black artistes the opportunity to redefine ‘success’ and inspire others to embrace their authentic selves, and shape the narrative of Black Excellence.