Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 10, 2024 5:32 pm GMT
The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards unfolded on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, showcasing a dazzling array of performances and memorable tributes as the event celebrated 40 years of influential music history. Hosted by Megan Thee Stallion, the night was marked by unforgettable moments, electrifying performances, and a plethora of awards that spotlighted the industry’s finest talents.
Taylor Swift’s Record Night
Taylor Swift emerged as the dominant force of the night, clinching the coveted Video of the Year award for her chart-topping track “Fortnight” featuring Post Malone. In total, Swift garnered seven awards, tying her with Beyoncé for the all-time lead in VMA wins, with 30 Moon People each. Swift’s victories also included prized categories such as Best Pop and Best Collaboration, further solidifying her status as a pop culture icon.
Accepting her awards, Swift delivered heartfelt speeches, expressing gratitude to her fans and collaborators. “Directing this video and putting it together and writing it was the most wonderful experience,” she noted, also acknowledging boyfriend Travis Kelce’s unwavering support throughout the creative process.
Rising Stars and Iconic Moments
The night also provided a platform for emerging talents. Chappell Roan, the breakout star of the summer, captured the Best New Artist award, a recognition of her impressive rise after a successful festival circuit. “I dedicate this to all the drag artists who inspire me,” Roan said in her acceptance speech. She performed her hit “Good Luck, Babe!” in front of a burning castle, a visual display that perfectly captured her artistic flair.
Notably, host Megan Thee Stallion paid homage to past VMAs history, incorporating a live snake into her performance, recalling the legendary moment from Britney Spears’ iconic 2001 routine. Other nostalgic nods included a supercut of memorable performances from artists like Miley Cyrus and Madonna, reinforcing the legacy of the VMAs as a cultural touchstone.
Performances That Stole the Show
Musical performances varied in genre and style, providing a feast for fans. Lenny Kravitz made a stirring comeback, blending classic hits with new tracks, while Sabrina Carpenter captivated with a whimsical space-themed performance that featured an astronaut and an alien. Her hit “Espresso” won the coveted Song of the Year award, affirming her status as a rising pop star.
Dua Lipa, Khalid, and Eminem also brought powerhouse performances to the stage, showcasing their latest hits while interacting with the audience. Equally electrifying was Megan Thee Stallion, whose performance of “BOA” and “HISS” set the tone for the night with her fierce energy.
Celebrating Diversity in Music
Latina artist Anitta received accolades for her hit “Mil Veces,” appreciating her fans for their support and stating the significance of Latin music’s growing influence in the industry. Similarly, rising star Tyla accepted her Best Afrobeats award with a strong message about celebrating the variety of African music, which goes beyond just Afrobeats.
As the evening progressed, the crowd erupted for every notable recipient, including SZA for Best R&B with her song “Snooze” and LISA, who triumphantly accepted the Best K-Pop award, emphasizing her impactful presence in the global music scene.
Contextualizing the Event
As the music industry continues to evolve, the VMAs reflect changing trends and tastes. Over the past few months, a surge in popularity for artists like Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter showcases the influence of social media and grassroots fan engagement. Both artists have cultivated loyal followings, emphasizing authenticity and personal connection in their music and performances—a vital lesson for newcomers in today’s competitive landscape.
Swift’s triumphs also emphasize a broader narrative within the industry, showcasing the intersection of personal storytelling and musical innovation. Her strategic collaborations and unapologetic embrace of her artistic vision resonate with audiences, embodying the spirit of the VMAs.
Looking Ahead
As the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards wrapped up, it became clear that the night symbolized more than just a series of performances and award wins; it marked a celebration of four decades of innovation and creativity in music. With a mixture of nostalgia and forward-thinking performances, the show offered a glimpse into the future of music as it embraces new genres and voices.
The 2024 VMAs were unforgettable, and now fans and artists are excited about what’s next! We can expect new trends and more different voices in music. As the show wrapped up, it was clear that the MTV VMAs are still full of life, always ready to change and celebrate the magic of music.
