MOBO has announced the return of its UnSung competition to champion the next generation of talent.
Supported by PRS Foundation, the organisation is searching for standout emerging artists creating original music across the UK and Ireland.
The programme is designed to support artists at a pivotal stage in their careers, providing a mix of mentoring, industry-led masterclasses, creative and business development, networking, live performance support, artist branding and career guidance, alongside access to MOBO’s wider network.
Rather than searching for one winner, MOBO UnSung will select 10 artists to join its Class of 2027, with the successful acts entering a six-month Artist Development Programme running from January to June 2027.
“For 30 years, MOBO has been about creating opportunities, opening doors and giving talent a platform to be seen and heard. MOBO UnSung is an important part of that legacy and we’re incredibly excited to bring it back as we search for our Class of 2027," said a statement from the MOBO Organisation.
“Some incredible artists have come through UnSung over the years, but what continues to excite us is discovering who’s next. This programme is about finding artists with something special and giving them the support, knowledge, connections and opportunities to help them take that next step. We can’t wait to hear what this year’s applicants have to offer.”
We’re incredibly proud to have been part of Kanya’s vision for this initiative for over a decade and see the tangible impact the initiative has had
Joe Frankland, PRS Foundation
The return of MOBO UnSung comes as the organisation marks 30 years since Kanya King CBE founded MOBO in 1996. King's death in June sparked an outpouring of tributes from the music industry.
PRS Foundation CEO Joe Frankland said: “PRS Foundation has supported MOBO UnSung since 2014, and we’re incredibly proud to have been part of Kanya’s vision for this initiative for over a decade and see the tangible impact the initiative has had, and continues to have, investing in, connecting and championing the next wave of talented music creators across the UK."
MOBO UnSung alumni include Tiana Major9, Juls, Tion Wayne, Jacob Banks, Juls, Mic Lowry, #AltMusic featured artist Jordan Adetunji and MOBO Award winner Nadia Rose.
Applications are now open to independent artists aged 16 and over, with aspiring acts invited to put themselves forward here before applications close at 11.59pm on October 15, 2026.
