How the MOBO awards are transforming Newcastle’s music scene

Indiyah Polack at The MOBOs awards (Credit: Author)

Did the MOBOs leave a legacy or was it a spark with no fire?

“Who would have thought? The MOBO Awards in Newcastle!” This was the reaction of many residents in Newcastle and the surrounding areas when it was announced that the MOBO Awards, a significant event celebrating Black music, would be held up North. A fringe festival was organized alongside the awards to encourage emerging talent and local artists to showcase their abilities. With performances by DJs and local artists, and the involvement of several businesses, Newcastle welcomed this major event that attracted participants from all over the UK.

However, beyond the spotlight and festivities, one must ask: Did the MOBOs leave a lasting impact on the music scene in this region?

For those unfamiliar with the MOBO Awards, it is a ceremony honouring the achievements of individuals of Black descent across various industries. In her speech during the ceremony, Kanya King CBE, CEO of the MOBO Awards, emphasized the event’s significance: “The MOBOs have never been limited to music; it’s about bringing justice and recognition in a world where we often lack it. MOBOs are touring around the UK because we know that talent exists everywhere, even if opportunities do not. That’s why we’re here in Newcastle.”

Bashy perfomances (Credit: Author)

Sushi, a local British Nigerian DJ who has been in the industry for nearly three years, sees this event as more of a fleeting moment than a significant milestone. “Before considering the impact of the MOBOs here, I ask myself: What data do we have on Black music in Newcastle?” he remarked. “The MOBOs came, and that’s great, but will it truly open doors for new talent and artists?”

Indeed, compared to cities like London or Birmingham, Newcastle has less diversity, which can complicate the acceptance and growth of Black music due to cultural misunderstandings. Sushi explains that some of the challenges faced by Black DJs and artists stem from a lack of understanding: “Newcomers to the industry might think it’s racism, but in reality, that’s not the case. Newcastle has its kind of diversity, but it still takes time for the community to recognize that Black music is not synonymous with violence. Unfortunately, incidents have occurred at the end of parties in front of clubs, and now everything is a bit mixed up.”

Screenshot from a video (Credit: Author)

He is not alone in his opinion. Collin Balcombe, an event promoter and organizer in Newcastle who facilitated a massive after-party with leading figures from the industry, doesn’t believe that the MOBOs’ visit left a legacy. He explains: “I put on this event to show the world what Newcastle has to offer. I also invited local artists who performed brilliantly.”

“I don’t think their visit left much of a mark; the initiative was there, but it could have done more. With more businesses in the surrounding area participating in activities and being present for the actual events, what is the plan for local artists now? Is there any real support? We’re here today, and if there were a plan for these people, it would have already taken effect.”

In a statement released before the MOBOs, Kim McGuinness, Mayor of the North East region, expressed her belief in Newcastle’s talent. She stated, “Choosing Newcastle to host the MOBO Awards underlines this, and as Mayor, I’m determined to support our culture and creative industries. Hence, the North East stands tall on the national and international stage. This is an exciting time for our region, and the MOBO Fringe is a fantastic start to 2025.”

Daps, the founder of Innits Studios—a podcast channel focused on comedy, particularly in music—believes that hosting the MOBO Awards in Newcastle was a significant achievement. He stated, “The MOBOs were beneficial because they showcased many outstanding artists. If the MOBOs hadn’t come to Newcastle, I’m sure a lot of the industry down south wouldn’t recognize our talent up here.”

He added, “What they’ve accomplished is to demonstrate to larger productions what Newcastle is capable of. A particularly impactful moment was when Vybz Kartel performed at the Utility Arena. It was a pivotal moment. Events like this are helping to put Newcastle on the map.”

Malik Abdul, a local Nigerian artist, believes the MOBOs were a great way to showcase his talent and unite people.

Still, another question arises: What resources are in place to support artists after the MOBOs, and the festivities have ended?

Councillor Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, expressed her belief that the MOBOs’ presence will leave a lasting mark on Newcastle: “I truly believe that our plans will leave a lasting and fitting legacy for the city. Since it was announced that Newcastle would host the 2025 awards, we have been working with communities and partners to create a meaningful and sustainable fringe program to celebrate Black music and culture, providing inspiration and opportunities for young people and other emerging creatives interested in all aspects of Black music.”

“While we have some excellent talent here, the MOBO fringe has helped them gain recognition. However, without funding or a proper support system, it may be challenging for them to succeed. In addition, the impact of the MOBO passage will take time to become evident.” Said Daps

While the MOBOs brought national attention to Newcastle’s music scene and its cultural diversity, the question of their legacy remains. For some, they represent a celebration without sufficient follow-through, while for others, they serve as a spark for potential change. Artists like Malik express a desire to perform beyond the North East, and Daps advocates for more consistent support for black British music in the North. Although the MOBOs may have opened the door, there is still a long way to go and much work to be done to support the artists.