Eve is packing her bags and heading across the Atlantic for one of the biggest nights in British music.
The Philadelphia rap legend will co-host the 2026 MOBO Awards with comedian Eddie Kadi on March 26 at Co-op Live in Manchester.
This marks an important international moment for the American hip-hop icon. She flew across the Atlantic to help celebrate the 30th anniversary of Europe’s largest celebration of black music.
“I’m delighted to be co-hosting the MOBO Awards in this grand year for their 30th anniversary,” Eve said in an official statement. “Although our journeys began across the Atlantic around the same time, we share a love of music and culture.”
The Grammy winner brings serious credentials to Manchester. Her hits including “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” and “Who’s That Girl?” dominated the charts on both sides of the ocean.
She’s sold millions of records and worked with everyone from Dr. Dre to Michael Jackson. Eve launched the BBC Sounds podcast Constantly Evolving with Eve in 2021 after living in the UK for over a decade.
She knows the British music scene inside and out.
“Manchester, I hope you’re ready because we have a fantastic night planned for you,” she added.
Eddie Cuddy returns to host the ceremony for the second year in a row. The British comedian co-hosted the show in Newcastle last year with Indiyah P#####.
“It’s an honor to co-host the MOBO Awards for the second year in a row, especially in its 30th anniversary year,” said Cady. “Looking forward to unexpected performances and surprises.”
MOBO founder Kanya King CBE praised the international hosting duo. She said Eve and Eddie represented “excellence, authenticity and cultural impact” while embodying the “spirit, humor and global perspective” that define the award.
For the first time in its history, MOBO has moved the awards ceremony to Manchester. Co-op Live is celebrating its landmark 30th anniversary.
Olivia Dean leads this year’s nominations with four nominations. Little Simz, kwn and Jim Legxacy also received four nominations each. Central Cee, Skepta and PinkPantheress followed with three nominations.
The first wave of performers included Olivia Dean, FLO and Tiwa Savage. Additional artists and special winners will be announced soon.
The awards ceremony has been held across the UK since 2009. Previous host cities include London, Liverpool, Leeds, Glasgow, Coventry, Sheffield and Newcastle.
MOBO will also host the MOBO Fringe Festival prior to the main event. The week-long celebration includes industry panels, talent showcases and creative workshops across Manchester.
Last year’s Newcastle Awards had an economic impact of more than $1 million for the region. Manchester hopes to reap similar benefits by staging the landmark anniversary show.
