Gospel-rap act DC3 has been shortlisted in the Best Newcomer and Best Gospel Act categories of the MOBO Awards which is this year celebrating its 30th anniversary.

DC3 is a 19-year-old rapper from Northampton with Zimbabwean heritage.

After a shift toward Christian music, driven by a desire to express his faith and purpose more authentically, he uses his songs and performances to share his personal spiritual journey and inspire others – particularly young people – to embrace their faith and conquer life’s hardships.

He released his latest single Valley last week which follows recent tracks Keep Moving, Holy Boppin and American Idolz.

DC3’s music reflects his commitment to his Christian values as well as his desire to positively impact his community.

He joins the likes of Little Simz, Olivia Dean, Blood Orange, Central Cee, AJ Tracey, Pink Pantheress and Skepta among this year’s nominations.

Founder and CEO of MOBO Group, Kanya King said: “As MOBO enters its 30th year, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary breadth of talent we have championed over the past three decades.

“Time and again, artists have taken the recognition of a MOBO Award and transformed it into fuel for lasting success. This year’s nominees are a powerful reflection of the culture and moment we are living in.

“Their voices matter — not only in how they soundtrack our lives, but in how they shape the future. From sharp, socially conscious lyricism to boundary-pushing creativity that defies genre, this generation of artists is deeply connected to their communities.”

The MOBO Awards are Europe’s biggest celebration of black music and culture.

A week of fringe events has been taking place across Manchester in the run-up to this year’s awards at venues across the city.

It is the first time the MOBO Awards are taking place in Manchester and will be held on Thursday, March 26 at the Co-op Live arena.

King added: “The 2026 nominations represent one of the strongest and most diverse showcases of black British music excellence we’ve seen in years.

“Spanning R&B, dance-electronic and experimental rap, what unites these artists is the power of their storytelling, their confidence and cultural impact.

“Congratulations to all our nominees — we can’t wait to celebrate with you in Manchester.”

In the Best Gospel Act category, DC3 is nominated alongside Annatoria, Faith Child, Imrhan, Sondae and Still Shadey.

In the Best Newcomer category, he is nominated alongside EsDeeKid, Finessekid, Jim Legxacy, kwn, Namesbliss, Nia Smith, Sekou, Skye Newman and YT.

At this year’s event, Pharrell Williams will be receiving the MOBO Global Songwriter Award with Slick Rick receiving the MOBO Lifetime Achievement Award.

There will also be performances by Slick Rick & Estelle, Shenseea, Olivia Dean, FLO, Tiwa Savage, Aitch, Miles Smith and a ‘MOBO Salutes: Grime 25’ medley featuring Wiley, Chip, NoLay, Scorcher and D Double E curated by DJ Target.