Christopher BarrettThe 12,500-capacity OVO Arena Wembley, recently acquired by Intermediate Capital Group, is to host black music celebration the MOBO Awards on 30 November.
Organisers have secured a headline sponsorship deal with Lucozade, which will also see the brand sponsor the best song category.
Launched in 1996 with a ceremony at London’s Grand Connaught Rooms, the MOBO Awards has honoured artists including Dave, Little Simz, Skepta, Ghetts, Headie One, Stefflon Don, Mahalia, Central Cee, Aitch and Ella Mai.
MOBO founder Kanya King CBE (pictured) said, “It’s a proud moment to see MOBO Awards return to London for our big 25 year milestone, which will see us celebrating our legacy, as well as paying it forward to the biggest stars of the scene. 25 years ago I put my house and sanity on the line to make the first MOBO Awards happen at the Connaught Rooms and what an incredible journey it has been.”
The MOBO Organisation supports talent across music, film and TV. It operates year-round to create events, content, partnerships and opportunities for young people in the entertainment industries. The organisation runs grassroots talent initiative MOBO UnSung, and supports career opportunities for black talent via MOBOLISE, a platform designed to boost diversity in the workplace.