Afrobeats star Asake grabbed his first win for 2024 as he was crowned the Best African Music Act at the 26th Music of Black Origin (MOBO) held on Wednesday.
He beat competition from top talents like Adekunle Gold, Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, and Davido, who secured nominations in the same category.
The recognition comes days after he and other African acts were unsuccessful in their bid to take home a Grammy, at least for the first time, at the just-ended 66th ceremony in Los Angeles.
Other winners at the MOBO awards were British rapper Central Cee, who emerged as Best Male Act and topped the list in the Song of the Year category. Singer-songwriter Rachel Agatha Keen, known on stage as Raye, also won Best Female Act.
MOBO is the UK’s biggest and most prestigious celebration of black music and culture. The 26th edition was celebrated at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, UK.
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A host of other musical talents were recognised amidst exciting performances, including one from Ghana’s King Promise and Camido, who treated the audience to a beautiful rendition of their hit singles Terminator and Sugarcane, respectively.
Best International Act went to Drake and 21 Savage who were competing with names like Doja Cat, Travis Scott, Ice Spice, Latto, Nicki Minaj, Sexyy Red, Sza, Victoria Monet, and others.
The 2024 nomination list was described as a strong representation of female artists and groups who are competing in various categories. Songs released between September 1st, 2022, to September 31st, 2023, were eligible for the awards.
Celebrating 26 years, MOBO has supported the growth of British black music on a global scale, championing homegrown talent and setting the standard in Rap, Hip-Hop, R&B, Soul, Grime, Drill, Gospel, Jazz, Reggae, Garage, Drum & Bass, and beyond.
Other media personalities were also celebrated for their pioneering roles in the music industry.