U.K. R&B artist Estelle has been confirmed to perform at the MOBO Awards at London’s Wembley Arena on Oct. 15. She has five award nominations including best female and best song for “American Boy”, which features Kanye West.
John Legend, who signed Estelle to his Hometown Records label venture with Atlantic Records, will also perform at the ceremony that recognizes music of black origin. Legend’s new set “Evolver” (RCA) is out on Oct. 20 and features Estelle as well as Kanye West and Andre 3000.
London-born songwriter and producer Taio Cruz will also perform alongside Sugababes. Cruz has worked with the U.K. pop trio as well as U.S. artists such as Usher and Britney Spears.
Other performers include U.S. rapper Flo Rida and U.K. R&B singer Jay Sean. Spice Girl Mel B will co-host the awards with Rev Run from Run DMC.
“The MOBO Awards has always been about showcasing the best of U.K. and U.S. artists with show-stopping performances,” said MOBO Awards CEO Kanya King in a statement. “We are delighted to welcome two American superstars and very proud to name other huge U.K. names who are now competing on equal terms internationally.”
Other nominees include Leona Lewis, who is up for three MOBO awards; the public can vote at www.mobo.com.
The ceremony, now in its thirteenth year, is sponsored by global money transfer service Western Union. It will be screened on the night of the awards on digital channel BBC Three with a highlights show on BBC One on Oct. 17.
