Artists

MOBO Awards: Kanya King Express takes artists to Newcastle

February 18, 2025 2 Mins Read

The Kanya King Express, named after the MOBO Group’s founder, departed from London’s King’s Cross station at 7.30am on this morning (Tuesday, February 18.

The train took the artists and crew to Newcastle ahead of the awards ceremony tonight, which celebrates the best of black music and culture from the UK and beyond.Kanya King (Image: Oliver Dixon)

The ceremony is being held in Newcastle for the first time.

Onboard the train, the artists enjoyed a first-class LNER Dine experience and a DJ set by Kiss Fresh’s Henrie.

Upon arrival at Newcastle station, the guests were treated to a performance by the Voices of Virtue Gospel Choir.Kanya King boarding the special LNER train (Image: Oliver Dixon)

LNER is the official travel partner of the awards and is sponsoring the Video of the Year award.

David Flesher, commercial director at LNER, said: “LNER is proud to be the official travel partner of the 2025 MOBO Awards.

“It is brilliant to see the awards, a highlight of the music calendar, come to Newcastle for the first time.

“The MOBO Awards is an opportunity for us to celebrate not only incredible music and culture, but also the diverse customers and communities which we serve.”Kanya King fans get their selfies (Image: Oliver Dixon)

Kanya King, founder and CEO of the MOBO Group, said: “I want to thank LNER for making me feel like a pop star.

“When I heard about ‘The Flying Swiftie’ celebrating Taylor Swift’s first UK gig in Edinburgh, I never imagined I’d have a train named in my honour too.

“This truly symbolises the journey of MOBO—breaking barriers, celebrating culture, and making history as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of The MOBO Group in 2026.(Image: Oliver Dixon)