With the way this year has gone, it feels like award season was only yesterday. But with December slowly creeping up on us, we’re about to be thrown back into the world of virtual performances, awkward pauses and star-studded looks and kicking off this year’s season is the MOBOs. Taking their extravaganza to Coventry, the prestigious celebration of Black music and culture will one again be partnering with YouTube and the BBC for a second consecutive year to help bring the awards to a global audience.

Spotlighting some of the biggest names in the scene this year, the MOBOs have unveiled this year’s nominations and the competition is looking fierce. Heavyweights such as Dave, Central Cee, Ghetts and Headie One lead this year’s nominations, scooping nods in Best Male, Best Hip Hop, Album of the Year and Song of the Year. Summer 2021 cover star Little Simz has also been credited this year, as she scores a hat trick of nominations for Best Female Act, Best Hip Hop Act and Video of the Year. Soul siren Cleo Sol has also picked up various nomination for her shimmering critically acclaimed album Mother, gained recognition for Best R&B/ Soul Act, Best Female and Album of the Year.

Founder and CEO of the MOBO Group Kanya King CBE spoke on the upcoming award show, stating, “The past 20 months have been extremely challenging for artists everywhere but as always we are seeing creatives rise up and adapt, even in a global pandemic. This year’s crop of MOBO nominees have not only shown resilience but incredible talent and range. We could not be prouder to celebrate their achievements across the 18 categories that span genres, as well as excellence in TV, film and media. Congratulations and best of luck to all of our nominees. Here’s to a big night on 5th December in Coventry!”

To see the full list of nominees visit mobo.com