Ezra Collective added another major achievement to their journey, winning Best Jazz Act at the 2026 MOBO Awards. The ceremony took place at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, marking a special moment not just for the band, but for the wider UK jazz scene.
Known for their vibrant blend of spiritual jazz, hip hop, grime, and Afrobeat, Ezra Collective continue to push boundaries with a sound that reaches far beyond traditional jazz audiences. Their win came against strong competition, including cktrl, Ego Ella May, Kokoroko, Nubya Garcia, and Yazmin Lacey, making the recognition even more significant.
Drummer and bandleader Femi Koleoso shared his appreciation following the announcement, reflecting on the group’s steady rise and growing impact. Since forming in 2016, the collective has built a reputation for energetic live performances and a fearless approach to blending genres.
Their recent project Dance, No One’s Watching has played a key role in this moment, further showcasing their ability to evolve while staying true to their core sound. The group’s journey has already seen them break new ground, including becoming the first jazz act to win the Mercury Prize, and this latest award continues that upward trajectory.
The 2026 MOBO Awards, celebrating 30 years, highlighted the diversity and strength of Black music, with standout wins across multiple genres. Ezra Collective’s victory stands as another sign of how jazz continues to grow and connect with new audiences, both in the UK and beyond.
