MOBO Awards 2026 LIVE in Manchester as Olivia Dean among stars to appear on red carpet

The city of Manchester is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host the 25th annual MOBO Awards ceremony for the first time ever. The prestigious event, which celebrates the best in urban music, will take place at the brand new Co-op Live venue tonight. This historic moment marks a significant milestone for Manchester and the MOBO organization.

The MOBO Awards, which stands for Music of Black Origin, was established in 1996 to recognize and honor the achievements of artists from diverse backgrounds in the UK’s urban music scene. Over the years, it has become one of the most anticipated events in the music industry, drawing in a global audience and showcasing the best of British talent. And now, after 25 years, the MOBO Awards have finally found a new home in Manchester.

The decision to hold the MOBO Awards in Manchester this year comes as no surprise. The city has a rich musical heritage and has produced some of the UK’s most iconic artists, such as Oasis, The Smiths, and The Stone Roses. It is also home to a thriving urban music scene, with artists like Bugzy Malone, Aitch, and IAMDDB making waves in the industry. The MOBO Awards’ move to Manchester is a testament to the city’s growing influence in the music world.

But it’s not just the city’s musical legacy that makes it the perfect host for the MOBO Awards. The newly built Co-op Live venue, which is set to open next year, is a state-of-the-art facility that promises to provide an unforgettable experience for both artists and attendees. With a capacity of 23,500, it is one of the largest indoor arenas in Europe and has been designed to accommodate a diverse range of events, including concerts, sporting events, and, of course, award shows.

The MOBO Awards have always been about celebrating diversity and giving a platform to underrepresented artists. And this is exactly what the Co-op Live venue stands for. The venue is committed to promoting inclusivity and sustainability, making it the perfect partner for the MOBO organization. Together, they aim to create a memorable and socially responsible event that will leave a positive impact on the city and its people.

The MOBO Awards ceremony is not just about the glitz and glamour of the red carpet and star-studded performances. It is also about recognizing and supporting the next generation of talent. As part of its mission to promote diversity in the music industry, MOBO has collaborated with the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to launch a talent development program. This program will provide opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds to gain experience and skills in the music industry.

The MOBO Awards ceremony has always been a celebration of culture, music, and diversity. And tonight, as the event takes place in Manchester for the first time ever, it will be a celebration of the city’s rich heritage and its vibrant future. It is a momentous occasion that will bring together artists, industry professionals, and music lovers from all over the world, showcasing the best of what Manchester has to offer.

So, let’s raise our glasses to Manchester and the MOBO Awards for making history tonight. Let’s celebrate the city’s diversity, creativity, and passion for music. And let’s look forward to many more years of collaboration between MOBO and Manchester, as they continue to pave the way for a more inclusive and vibrant music industry. The MOBO Awards ceremony in Co-op Live tonight is not just an event; it’s a celebration of unity, empowerment, and progress. Let the music play on!

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