Ipswich artists nominated in same Mobo category

Native James recently signed with Saviour Music Records

Two Ipswich music artists have been nominated in the same category in the 2025 Mobo Awards.

Bob Vylan and Native James have been shortlisted in the best alternative music act category.

It is Native James' first nomination at the awards, and he said when he heard the news he did not believe it.

Bob Vylan - made up of Bobby Vylan and Bobbie Vylan - took home a Mobo in the same category in 2022, and recently announced they would play Coachella in the US next year.

This is the first time Native James has been nominated for a Mobo

Native James told BBC Introducing Norfolk and Suffolk he found out he was nominated while at work.

"I was trying to wrap my head around it," he said.

"I put my phone back down and then I went on Instagram and saw myself tagged... it was insane."

The rapper, who has recently signed with Saviour Music Records, said he was pleased "to do this" for Ipswich, and praised Bob Vylan for their work too.

"I'm honoured and I'm humbled, and thank you for everyone that's been streaming and listening - I appreciate it."

He said it was "just the beginning" of what he had to offer.

Bob Vylan, made up of Bobby (left) and Bobbie (right) Vylan, have also been nominated for a 2025 Mobo award

Rap and rock duo Bob Vylan, who are now based in London, recently toured the US and earlier this year performed on Later with Jools Holland on BBC TV.

Other notable artists nominated for a Mobo include Central Cee, Jorja Smith, Little Simz and Raye.

The awards take place in Newcastle in February.