Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 10, 2024 4:21 pm GMT
Star-Studded Night at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards
The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards turned heads and dropped jaws on September 11 at Long Island’s UBS Arena, as celebrities took to the stage to showcase their talent. Hosted by the dynamic Megan Thee Stallion, the event brought together some of music’s biggest names, including Eminem, Katy Perry, and Halsey, for a night filled with unforgettable performances and surprising moments.
A Grand Opening by Eminem
Eminem Takes Center Stage
Eminem opened the ceremony with a bang, performing his new single “Houdini” from his latest album, The Death of Slim Shady. In a nostalgic nod to his past, the rapper donned a black T-shirt and sported bleached hair, bringing along a crew of his iconic alter egos and even a lookalike of his younger self for a memorable skit.
Eminem captivated the audience with his explosive performance at the opening of the 2024 MTV VMAs.
Virtual Collaboration with Jelly Roll
Eminem didn’t go solo for the entire performance. The rapper was later joined by Jelly Roll, who made a virtual appearance to perform their collaborative track “Somebody Save Me.” This marked a significant moment, as Eminem hadn’t opened the show in over a decade, last doing so in 2010.
Power-Packed Performances
New Faces and Familiar Favorites
The night featured an impressive lineup of performers, each bringing their distinct style to the stage. Among them was Camila Cabello, who sang “Godspeed” and ”June Gloom,” continuing her streak of VMAs appearances. This year marked her third time gracing the VMAs stage, having made her debut in 2019.
Chappell Roan, crowned Best New Artist, delivered a vibrant performance of her hit “Good Luck, Babe,” further establishing her rising status in the music industry. Following an eventful year, this moment held special significance as it was her first time performing at the VMAs.
Iconic Moments from Established Stars
Katy Perry, honored with the 2024 Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, brought nostalgia to the audience with a medley of her classic hits like “Roar” and “Firework.”
Halsey also made waves in the VMAs sphere by performing a new track, “Ego,” from her upcoming album, The Great Impersonator, set to release on October 25.
Additional Highlights
Other standout performances included Anitta, who electrified the audience with songs such as “Savage Funk,” “Alegria,” and “Paradise,” while Eminem’s captivating set continued to solidify his place in music history. K-pop sensation Le Sserafim performed during the official pre-show, adding an international flair to the already diverse lineup.
A Red Carpet to Remember
The red carpet was not without its drama. Chappell Roan made headlines for her fiery response to an impatient photographer, an incident that quickly went viral. The self-proclaimed “queen of boundaries” stood her ground with a passionate outburst that resonated with many as she highlighted the pressures of celebrity life.
In interviews following the incident, she explained her reaction, noting that red carpets can be especially overwhelming, particularly under the gaze of flash-happy paparazzi. Fellow musician Noah Kahan voiced his support, sharing solidarity for Roan’s experience.
Noteworthy Wins and Moments
The evening was not just about performances; it also celebrated the achievements of various artists. Eminem came into the night with eight nominations, including Video of the Year and Best Hip-Hop. Meanwhile, Glorilla performed “Yeah Glo!” and “TGIF,” returning to the VMAs stage after winning Best New Artist in 2023.
This year’s event also saw Lenny Kravitz returning to the VMAs stage after decades, while LL Cool J participated in a tribute to hip-hop’s 50th anniversary.
A New Era for the MTV Video Music Awards
While the performances and awards were certainly highlighted, the 2024 MTV VMAs marked a significant shift in the landscape of pop culture, illustrating the continuous evolution of musical talent and the dynamic nature of awards shows. With a mix of new faces like Chappell Roan and established stars like Eminem and Katy Perry, this year’s ceremony showcased a rich blend of artistic expressions that captivated audiences worldwide.
As the music industry continues to evolve and embrace new genres, events like the MTV VMAs will remain a vital platform for artists, allowing them to share their work and connect with fans in meaningful ways.
Conclusion
The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards was an unforgettable night! It had amazing performances and touching moments that celebrated different kinds of art. As music keeps changing, fans are excited to see what the future brings for new artists. Events like the VMAs, along with social media and support from fans, are making the bond between musicians and their fans even stronger and more exciting.
