The MOBO Awards are set to return to Leeds on November 29. Recognising the achievements of artists performing in genres ranging from hip-hop, soul, jazz, gospel, reggae to R&B, the awards have done much to elevate black music into the mainstream.

The awards were last held in Leeds in 2015 where grime was the big winner. Stormzy took home the gongs for Best Male Act and Best Grime Act while Skepta won Best Song for ‘Shutdown’. Elsewhere, Krept And Conan won Best Hip-Hop Act and Best Album for The Long Way Home while ‘Godfather Of Grime’ Wiley won a Paving The Way award recognition of his pioneering work. The awards were held at the Leeds Arena.

Performers that night included Lethal Bizzle, FKA Twigs, Ella Eyre and CeeLo Green. However, organisers are remaining tight-lipped as to who will be taking the stage to provide the entertainment this year.

MOBO founder Kanya King said: “We are truly excited to return to Leeds – we had an amazing experience here two years ago thanks to all our partners and a very enthusiastic and welcoming audience.

“I still have people coming up to me saying what an electrifying show it was. Looking at the list of musical talent this year, it promises to be another exciting celebration of the best in urban music.”

Councillor Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council added: "We are delighted to welcome the MOBO Awards back to Leeds following a very successful event in 2015.

“It is hugely important that as we bid for European Capital Culture we find every opportunity to showcase the cultural diversity of the city on an international stage and MOBO Awards with its support for emerging artists and world wide reputation for championing music of black origin is a fantastic platform for this."