Hip Hop/Rap
Pharrell Williams and Slick Rick to be honoured at 2026 MOBO Awards
Pharrell Williams and Slick Rick are among those set to be honoured at this month's MOBOs.
The MOBO Awards have unveiled two major honourees and a fresh wave of performers for their landmark 30th anniversary ceremony, taking place on March 26, 2026 at Co‑op Live in Manchester.
Pharrell Williams will receive the MOBO Global Songwriter Award, recognising his decades of influence as one of modern music’s most innovative hitmakers. Hip‑hop pioneer Slick Rick will be honoured with the MOBO Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his groundbreaking storytelling and enduring impact on the genre.
Ricky Walters aka Slick Rick commented: “It’s a real honour to be recognised by the MOBO Awards, which have long celebrated the richness of Black music and culture. From Mitcham - South London to New York and beyond, my journey in Hip Hop has always been about storytelling, imagination and staying true to the culture, so this moment right here feels special and warm."
The ceremony, hosted by Eve and Eddie Kadi, is shaping up to be one of the most star‑studded in the event’s history.
Slick Rick will also take to the stage for a special collaborative performance with Estelle, designed to spotlight his journey through hip‑hop and his lasting cultural legacy.
The newly announced performers join an already packed line‑up. Jamaican star Shenseea has been added to the bill, performing alongside previously confirmed acts including Olivia Dean, FLO, Tiwa Savage, Aitch, and Myles Smith.
The night will also feature a major moment for UK rap with MOBO Salutes: Grime 25, a medley curated by DJ Target and featuring Wiley, Chip, Nolay, Scorcher and D Double E.
Tickets for the 2026 MOBO Awards at Co‑op Live in Manchester are available now via mobo.com/tickets.
