Leeds to host the 2015 MOBO Awards

The Leeds First Direct Arena is set to host the international MOBO Awards (Music of Black Origin) due to the backing from Leeds Business Improvement District.

The MOBO Awards, which are watched around the globe and attract some of the biggest names in music, will be held in Leeds for the first time in November as a result of financial backing from Leeds BID and Leeds City Council, it was announced at this year’s Leeds West Indian Carnival.

This surprising announcement was made during Europe’s longest running Caribbean Carnival by their founder and CEO, Kanya King on Bank Holiday Monday.

Leeds Business Improvement was also a keynote sponsor for the Leeds West Indian Carnival this year backing its marketing and promotional pop up in the city centre.

Ms King said: “There couldn’t have been a better year for Leeds to play host to the MOBO’s, the year they bid for their city to become the European Capital of Culture. We are thrilled to announce that our 20th show will be in this great city in its beautiful arena and we look forward to delivering a spectacular and very dynamic show that will be remembered for years to come to inspire the next generation of upcoming talent.”

Andrew Cooper, chief executive for Leeds Business Improvement District, added: “Supporting business and tourism were key priorities for Leeds BID and successfully persuading MOBO to choose Leeds for its 2015 Award ceremony demonstrates that already organisers of major international events appreciate the calibre, diversity and volume of our hospitality offer. At the same time as hosting a major musical event it will allow audiences worldwide to sample across a variety of channels both real and virtual the variety and quality of the hospitality and cultural offer we have here in the city.

“Leeds Business Improvement District is committed to raising awareness and diversity. What better way to achieve that than by sponsoring the MOBO Awards in its 20th year?”

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, also commented: “It’s a massive coup for Leeds to be hosting the MOBO awards and a huge endorsement of our status as a city that celebrates culture and diversity.

“I can’t think of a better way to make this prestigious announcement than at the carnival, which for so long has been one of the most dynamic and exciting events on our cultural calendar and a passionate celebration of both community and heritage.

“As we prepare our bid to be named European Capital of Culture 2023, events like the MOBO awards and the carnival will be an integral part of our efforts to showcase the very best that Leeds has to offer.”

The MOBO’s have previously been held in London and Glasgow, attracting crowds of over 100,000 and TV audiences of more than 500 million viewers . The star-studded award show has featured global superstars and celebrities including Rihanna, John Legend, Black Eyed Peas, Sam Smith, Destiny’s Child and Leeds born Corinne Bailey-Rae and Mel B.

Arthur France, Leeds Carnival Founder and Chair, said: “The Bank Holiday is always a great day for Leeds to showcase the music and heritage of Carnival to audiences from near and far. Announcing the MOBO Awards are coming to the city is simply the icing on the cake – it’s great for Carnival and a fantastic coup for culture and entertainment in Leeds.”