Mobo Awards 2025 reveal iconic 90s star to perform as more artists confirmed

This year's MOBO Awards head to Newcastle and a 90s R&B icon has been announced as one of the performers to take to the stage for this year's ceremony

This year's MOBO Awards have just got better with the second wave of performers announced.

The annual event has a long history of championing R&B and that's set to continue on February 18 at Newcastle's Utilita Arena. The latest announcement is sure to delight fans as it was confirmed there will be a performance by 90s R&B icon Shola Ama.

The will also be a one-of-a-kind R&B celebration, led by legendary tastemaker and KISS host DJ Ace. Among those set to grace the north east stage is Jaz Karis, Nao, Sasha Keable, Shae Universe and Odeal.

90s icon Shola Ama will appear on stage for a special performance honouring the genre’s rich legacy and future. The singer, who landed huge hits in the 90s with tunes such as You Might Need Somebody and You're The One I Love, as well as garage smash Imagine, will be looking to put on a memorable performance.

The awards ceremony will see an explosive mix of genres and energy brought to the stage with performances from Darkoo, Nova Twins, DJ AG, Pozer and LeoStayTrill.

Last month, the first wave of announcements saw Krept and Konan, Spice and Bashy revealed as performers. Organisers were also thrilled to announce former Love Island finalist Indiyah Polack and Eddie Kadi will be hosting the 2025 MOBOs. Indiyah made a strong impression when she debuted as MOBOs host in 2024, while comedian Eddie is familiar to millions of BBC viewers from his stint on Strictly.

Indiyah was over the moon to be returning as co-host and shared enthusiasm as the news broke. She said: "I'm so excited to be back co-hosting the MOBO Awards for the second year. We're going to bring a show like no other before to Newcastle, celebrating the richness of Black music and culture. You can expect some incredible red carpet looks, amazing live performances and of course, great vibes from Eddie and I."

Last year saw Raye, Central Cee and Sugababes scoop up the big prizes, while this year's MOBO (Music of Black Origin) nominations feature 2024 winner Central Cee, global music superstars like Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj and Kendrick Lamar, and UK talents such as Jorja Smith and Sampha.

The Awards will be live-streamed to a global audience on YouTube at 8pm GMT, with an exclusive BBC One broadcast special airing on 21 February.

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