19-year-old independent artist DC3 (real name Daniel Chenjerai) became the first act to claim both the Best Newcomer and Best Gospel Act awards in the same year, shining a spotlight on the rising influence of faith-based music within the UK’s Black music scene.
The ceremony, held on Thursday evening at Manchester’s Co-op Live arena, celebrated the best in Black British and international music. DC3, a Northampton-born rapper of Zimbabwean heritage, took home the prizes in two highly competitive categories, marking a breakthrough for gospel and Christian rap.
Speaking after the wins, the teenager described the experience as “just sick,” admitting he hadn’t expected the double victory. “I didn’t expect anything,” he told reporters, adding that he was “grateful to God” for the recognition. By Friday morning, he said he still hadn’t slept from the excitement.
DC3’s music blends rap flows with uplifting Christian messages, reflecting a personal transformation where he shifted toward faith-inspired content to express his beliefs more authentically. Operating independently, the young artist has built a following through raw, heartfelt tracks that resonate with themes of purpose, resilience, and spirituality — a sound that bridges contemporary UK rap with gospel traditions.
His success highlights a growing wave of young diaspora talent redefining genre boundaries. British-Zimbabwean roots and a cross-cultural upbringing have shaped his style, where gospel, rap, and modern UK sounds intersect with intention. Industry observers see the wins as a sign of gospel music gaining broader mainstream traction at an event traditionally focused on genres like hip-hop, R&B, grime, and Afrobeats.
The MOBO Awards, which stand for Music of Black Origin, continue to champion diversity and emerging voices. DC3’s historic double victory underscores how independent artists rooted in faith are carving out space in the competitive landscape.