BIMM Students Attend the MOBO Awards 2026
The Creative Futures team recently gave our students the opportunity to attend the 2026 MOBO Awards in Manchester, experiencing one of the UK’s most important celebrations of music of Black origin.
Bringing together students from BIMM London, Birmingham, and Manchester, the trip provided the opportunity to connect across campuses before heading to the iconic Co-op Live venue to celebrate MOBO’s 30th anniversary.
The night featured performances from FLO, who opened the show, alongside sets from Aitch, Myles Smith, and Slick Rick, who was joined by Estelle. A special MOBO Salutes Grime 25 medley, curated by DJ Target, brought together Chip, Wiley, D Double E, and Scorcher to celebrate the genre’s legacy.
Olivia Dean emerged as one of the defining artists of the night, taking home three awards and continuing what has been widely described as a standout run across the 2026 awards season. Her live performance provided a contrasting moment in the show, slowing the pace with a more stripped-back, vocal-led set that showcased her range that mesmerised the crowd.
The ceremony also paid tribute to influential figures whose impact stretches deep into musical heritage. Pharrell Williams was recognised with the Global Songwriter Award, celebrating a career that has shaped modern pop and R&B, while Slick Rick received the Lifetime Achievement Award, honouring decades of influence across hip-hop.
Marking its 30th anniversary, the MOBO Awards felt like both a celebration and a promise to look forward. Hosted in Manchester for the first time, the event was widely noted for bringing together established names and emerging talent in a way that reflected the continued evolution and cultural significance of music of Black origin in the UK and beyond.
We offer our students opportunities like this to experience the live music industry first-hand, gaining insight, inspiration and access to major cultural moments.
Want to experience moments like this for yourself? Discover how BIMM can help you take your first steps into the music industry.
