Ipswich Artists Nominated in Same Mobo Awards Category

The 2025 Mobo Awards have seen two music artists from Ipswich, Bob Vylan and Native James, receive nominations within the same category: best alternative music act. This marks Native James’ inaugural nomination for the awards, a development he initially found hard to believe. Bob Vylan, the duo comprising Bobby Vylan and Bobbie Vylan, previously secured a Mobo in this very category in 2022 and recently disclosed plans to perform at Coachella in the US next year. Speaking to BBC Introducing Norfolk and Suffolk, Native James recounted discovering his nomination while at his workplace. He stated, “I was trying to wrap my head around it.” He further added, “I put my phone back down and then I went on Instagram and saw myself tagged… it was insane.” The rapper, who recently signed with Saviour Music Records, expressed his satisfaction “to do this” for Ipswich and also commended Bob Vylan for their contributions. He remarked, “I’m honoured and I’m humbled, and thank you for everyone that’s been streaming and listening – I appreciate it.” He concluded by stating that this was “just the beginning” of his potential offerings. Bob Vylan, the rap and rock duo now based in London, recently completed a tour of the US and earlier this year appeared on Later with Jools Holland on BBC TV. Among other prominent artists nominated for a Mobo are Central Cee, Jorja Smith, Little Simz, and Raye. The awards ceremony is scheduled to be held in Newcastle in February.