Liverpool is set to host the 2010 MOBO awards.
The international music event will celebrate its 15th birthday with a star-studded ceremony at the Echo Arena in October.
X-Factor singing sensation and MOBO ambassador Leona Lewis made the announcement on Monday at a press conference in Liverpool's waterfront convention centre.
The 25-year-old was joined by MOBO Awards founder, Kanya King MBE, and 17-year-old Ben Osu who pioneered an online campaign to hold the event in the city.
Multi-platinum selling artist Leona said: "I used to watch the MOBOs growing up and I'm now the proud owner of two awards so I'm delighted to be here to help commemorate their 15th year.
"I performed in the arena a few days ago and I got such an amazing reception. The crowd were great so I think Liverpool is the perfect choice for this year's MOBO Awards."
Kanya King said: “We are all very excited about celebrating MOBO’s 15th birthday in Liverpool and bringing them to this vibrant city recognised for its outstanding contribution to music, culture and creativity.
"We have some incredible plans for this year’s event and we’re particularly looking forward to working with the city.”
Ms King also praised local teenager Ben for his involvement in securing Liverpool's successful bid to host the event.
Ben, from Toxteth, emailed officials from MOBO, which stands for music of black origin, detailing why Liverpool should host the prestigious ceremony.
Ben said: "Liverpool was one of the main ports during the slave trade which had a profound affect on the city's culture.
"Add to that the fact that the biggest band in the world, The Beatles, came from Liverpool and their music was heavily influenced by black artists of the early twentieth century and our year as Capital of Culture, our city is the perfect to host the MOBOs."
To commemorate the second year of the awards being held outside of London, it was announced that the BeMOBO Award, which recognises the work or individuals or organisations, would be given a regional focus.
Previous winners have included Anti-Slavery UK, The From Boyhood to Manhood Foundation and War Child UK.
This year’s winner, a north west organisation, will be chosen by Ms King, along with a city council representative and a MOBO judge.
Liverpool council leader Cllr Joe Anderson said: “Liverpool is delighted its bid to be the host of the 2010 MOBO awards was a winning one and I’ve no doubt the city will host an unforgettable celebration of music.”
This year’s MOBOs will be sponsored by Lebara Mobile UK for the second year running.
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