Central Cee makes history at MOBO Awards with record-breaking win

Central Cee becomes first artist to win Best Male Act three times, tying Stormzy’s MOBO record with seven total wins.

Central Cee has made history at the MOBO Awards, becoming the first artist to be named Best Male Act three times.

The UK rapper, also known as Cench, now matches Stormzy’s record as the most decorated rapper in the MOBOs’ history, securing his seventh award.

Despite his major achievement, Central Cee did not attend the ceremony in Newcastle. Host Eddie Kadi accepted the award on his behalf, joking that they “share everything… except royalties.” Reacting to his win on Instagram, Cench shared a simple caption: “that’s nice.”

Other big winners of the night included Darkoo, who claimed Best Female Act, beating out Raye and Jorja Smith. She also won Song of the Year for Favourite Girl, her collaboration with Dess Dior. During her acceptance speech, Darkoo humorously admitted she had attempted to use ChatGPT to write her speech but opted to freestyle instead, thanking her family for their support.

Bashy made a triumphant return to music after a 15-year break, winning Album of the Year for Being Poor Is Expensive and Best Hip-Hop Act. The artist, known for his acting career, reflected on his journey, encouraging aspiring musicians to persevere despite challenges.

Ayra Starr made history as the first African woman to win Best International Act and became the first female artist in 16 years to claim Best African Music Act. Vybz Kartel received the MOBO Impact Award, addressing his incarceration and recent legal battles while accepting the honor.

MOBO founder Kanya King, recently diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer, received a surprise Paving the Way Award. She expressed gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to celebrating Black music, announcing plans for the MOBOs’ 30th anniversary next year.

Full List of Winners:

• Best Male Act – Central Cee

• Best Female Act – Darkoo

• Best Newcomer – Odeal

• Album of the Year – Bashy, Being Poor Is Expensive

• Song of the Year – Darkoo feat. Dess Dior, Favourite Girl

• Best Hip-Hop Act – Bashy

• Best Drill Act – Pozer

• Best African Music Act – Ayra Starr

• Best International Act – Ayra Starr

• MOBO Impact Award – Vybz Kartel

• MOBO Paving the Way Award – Denise Lewis MBE