London-based jazz collective Ezra Collective took home the Best Jazz Act award at the 2026 MOBO Awards, held on Thursday night at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester.
The septet, known for their energetic fusion of spiritual jazz with elements of hip-hop, grime, and Afrobeat, beat out strong competition including cktrl, Ego Ella May, Kokoroko, Nubya Garcia, and Yazmin Lacey.
Drummer and bandleader Femi Koleoso expressed gratitude following the win, highlighting the group’s continued momentum in the UK jazz scene. The victory marks another high point for Ezra Collective, who previously made history as the first jazz act to win the Mercury Prize.
Formed in 2016, the group has built a reputation for dynamic live performances and boundary-pushing music that appeals to audiences beyond traditional jazz circles. Their latest album, Dance, No One’s Watching, was among the projects celebrated in the awards cycle.
The 2026 MOBO Awards, marking the organisation’s 30th anniversary and its first time hosting in Manchester, celebrated excellence across Black music genres. Olivia Dean led the night with multiple wins, while other notable victors included Raye for Video of the Year, Central Cee for Best Hip-Hop Act (his eighth MOBO trophy), FLO for Best R&B/Soul Act, Wizkid for Best African Music Act, and Vybz Kartel for Best Caribbean Music Act.
Hosted by global hip-hop icon Eve and comedian Eddie Kadi, the ceremony featured electrifying performances and underscored the vibrancy of UK and global Black music culture. The event was live-streamed, bringing the Manchester celebration to audiences worldwide.
Ezra Collective’s win reinforces the growing mainstream recognition of innovative jazz acts in the UK, continuing a trajectory that has seen them sell out major venues and earn critical acclaim for their musicianship and genre-blending approach.
