Batman Samini, From Ghana, Named Best African Act @ Mobo Awards

Chart-topping soul sensation Corinne Bailey Rae stole the show at last night's Mobo Awards.

The former waitress from Leeds flew in from a US tour to collect the prize for best newcomer and best UK female at the 11th Music of Black Origin awards.

The 27-year-old's victory came just seven months after she released her debut album. She said: 'This hasn't come quickly. I've been singing since I was 15 - but it's all been very quick in the last year. I'm really loving it.'

Former Destiny's Child star Beyoncè Knowles was named best international female. She also won best song and best video for Deja Vu, featuring her fiance Jay-Z. He took the award for best international male.

However, Beyoncè, who had four nominations, was beaten to the best r'n'b trophy by Rihanna.
Miss Dynamite's younger brother Akala beat US rappers Busta Rhymes and Kanye West to take the award for best hip hop Artist. Akala, 22, whose real name is Kingslee Maclean Daley, released his debut album, It's Not A Rumour, in May.

Former Fame Academy finalist Lemar performed on stage at the Royal Albert Hall in London with Jamelia, before taking the best UK act award. And in a dig at all the people who were quick to write him off he said: 'It's great to win again - I'm still here!'

Jamaican Sean Paul beat Burning Spear, Anthony Hamilton, Damien Marley and Shaggy to the best reggae artist award, at the event hosted by British comedienne Gina Yashere.

Batman Samini, from Ghana, was name best African act in a new category, Nu Life were the best gospel performers and the best DJ category was Galaxy Radio's Steve Sutherland.

The ceremony was televised live for the first time - on BBC3 - and will be shown on BBC1 tomorrow.

However, it attracted criticism for dropping the jazz category.

Source: John Higginson, Metro