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Olivia Dean cleans up again at MOBO Awards – as Pharrell Williams takes special prize for songwriting

Michael Garcia 30 March 2026

Olivia Dean Dominates MOBO Awards with Triple Win, Pharrell Williams Honored for Songwriting Excellence

Following a Grammy triumph and a string of Brit Award accolades, Olivia Dean solidified her status as a MOBO Award powerhouse by securing three major titles at this year’s ceremony. The singer-songwriter, whose work spans pop, funk, and soul, was crowned Best Female Act and claimed both Album and Song of the Year honors for her chart-topping debut, *The Art Of Loving*, and its standout track, “Man I Need.”

Dean’s performance at Manchester’s Co-op Live included a collaborative set with artists like FLO, Aitch, and Myles Smith, alongside a grime medley curated by DJ Target that featured Chip, D Double E, Nolay, Scorcher, and Wiley. The event, marking the MOBOs’ 30th anniversary, also spotlighted global music talent, with Pharrell Williams receiving the Global Songwriter Award and Slick Rick honored for his lifetime achievements.

Outside of Dean’s victories, other standout moments included Jim Legxacy’s win for Best Male Act, Raye’s recognition in the Video of the Year category for “Where Is My Husband!”, and DC3’s dual triumph as Best Newcomer and Best Gospel Act. Additional categories saw FLO take Best RnB/Soul Act, Nova Twins for Best Alternative Act, Central Cee for Best Hip-Hop Act, and Ezra Collective for Best Jazz Act after their Mercury Prize win. Sherelle and P2J were also celebrated for Best Electronic/Dance Act and Best Producer, respectively.

International acts Arya Starr, Wizkid, and Vybz Kartel were named Best International Act, Best African Music Act, and Best Caribbean Music Act. The ceremony also acknowledged non-music achievements, with Niko Omilana earning Best Media Personality and Stephen Graham recognized for his role in the acclaimed series *Adolescence*.