Apart from the WSTRN and Abra Cadabra‘s mistaken award everything seems to have gone smooth at the 21st Mobo Awards.
David was named best male, capping a year in which he has returned from the pop wilderness with a number one album, Following My Intuition.
Drake, whose single One Dance was at number one for 14 weeks earlier this year, was named best international act.
While Birmingham MC Lady Leshurr, who learned to make music in her local youth club, took home best female act.
The 27-year-old is perhaps less well-known than her fellow winners, but is poised for big things after a series of freestyle raps, called The Queen’s Speech, went viral online.
She is currently recording her debut album with US mega-producer Timbaland.
“This is like a dream come true,” said the rapper. “I’ve been watching the Mobos since ages ago, basically. To be here behind this stand… I’m shaking.”
Craig David’s win came 16 years after he picked up the Mobo for best newcomer.
“What a time to be alive. 2016 feels good,” he said as he picked up his trophy from singer Katy B. “Thanks to everyone who’s been rolling with me since 1999.
“Can I say a huge thank you to the Mobos for supporting me since day one?” the star added.
However, he went on to recognise his fellow nominees – including Skepta, Kano and Stormzy, all of whom have been at the frontline of the grime resurgence this year.
Grime was well-represented in the night’s other categories. Section Boyz took home best hip-hop, while Chip picked up the best grime prize.
Kano won best album for Made In The Manor, a textured and reflective record, rooted in his east London upbringing.
The star beat Mercury Prize-winner Skepta, and two other Mercury nominees, Laura Mvula and Michael Kiwanuka, to scoop the prize.
He was unable to attend the ceremony, but sent a recorded message, holding aloft a chipped trophy. “My award’s broken but I’m going to have a drink tonight,” he said.
The full list of Mobo winners:
- Best Male Act – Craig David
- Best Female Act – Lady Leshurr
- Best Newcomer – WSTRN
- Best Album – Kano: Made In The Manor
- Best Hip Hop Act – Section Boyz
- Best Song – Abra Cadabra ft. Krept & Konan: Robbery (remix)
- Best Video – Nadia Rose: SKWOD
- Best R&B/Soul – Shakka
- Best Grime Act (In Association with BBC Radio 1Xtra): Chip
- Best International Act: Drake
- Best Jazz Act: Esperanza Spalding
- Best Gospel Act: Guvna B
- Best Reggae Act: Popcaan
- Best African Act: Wizkid
- Paving The Way: Nicola Adams MBE and Ms. Dynamite
