2025 MOBO Awards Make History with Newcastle Debut, Elevate City's Cultural Scene

Newcastle Welcomes the MOBO Awards in Style

The 2025 MOBO Awards held on February 18 was a landmark event for Newcastle, as the prestigious ceremony was hosted in the city for the first time at the Utilita Arena. Celebrating the richness and diversity of Black music and culture, the event brought together an impressive lineup of artists and public figures, filling the city with excitement and energy.

Hosts Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi graced the stage with charisma, guiding attendees through a night of not only music but also cultural significance. Indiyah, dazzled by the local hospitality, even managed to raise a smile about the infamous Newcastle weather, while Eddie made a delightful attempt at the Geordie dialect, much to the crowd's amusement.

Incredible Performances and Meaningful Moments

Performances throughout the evening were nothing short of electrifying. Krept & Konan delivered a set they dubbed 'special and personal,' while other stellar performances came from artists like Spice and Nova Twins. Each act weaved a unique narrative, immersing the audience in a vibrant celebration of Black creativity.

Key attendees included Callum Wilson of Newcastle United, who expressed pride in seeing the city at the forefront of cultural events. Similarly, Shaun Wallace, known as 'The Dark Destroyer' from The Chase, was on hand to present the Best Female Act award, adding a touch of celebrity glamour.

Local artist Victor Ray was thrilled to perform in his hometown, reflecting on the challenge and triumph of gaining recognition in the music industry. For Victor and others, the night was more than entertainment; it was a platform to highlight Black excellence and innovation.

The event's significance was underscored by the arrival of attendees on a specially chartered train, symbolizing the large-scale importance and anticipation surrounding the MOBO Awards. The entire ceremony was captured for a wider audience with a BBC One broadcast scheduled for February 21 and a YouTube live stream.

The MOBO Awards in Newcastle were not just an evening of incredible music, they marked a new chapter for the city, positioning it as a growing hub for cultural engagement and artistic expression. The echo of this event will undoubtedly inspire future collaborations and shine a spotlight on Newcastle as a center for cultural innovation.