Neil Pond
Updated on: October 10, 2024 5:12 pm GMT
2024 MTV Video Music Awards: A Night of Epic Performances and Iconic Moments
The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) took place on Wednesday, September 11, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, celebrating the very best in music and performance art. Hosted by the dynamic Megan Thee Stallion, the show was a star-studded affair featuring electric performances from artists like Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, Lenny Kravitz, and Katy Perry, among many others. With a nostalgic nod to the show’s 40-year legacy, the evening was filled with unforgettable moments, thrilling performances, and a celebration of both new and veteran talent.
In a night that symbolized excellence in the music industry, Taylor Swift emerged as the biggest winner, taking home an impressive seven awards, including the coveted Video of the Year for her collaboration with Post Malone on “Fortnight.” This achievement not only highlights her versatility but also ties her with Beyoncé for the most VMAs won in history, with both artists now boasting 30 Moon Persons each.
Iconic Performances and Historic Wins
The show began with high energy, as performances quickly dazzled the audience. Megan Thee Stallion, while hosting, paid homage to Britney Spears with an eye-catching performance involving a live snake, reminiscent of Spears’ infamous “I’m a Slave 4 U” routine at the 2001 VMAs. The spectacle set the tone for the evening, which included a mix of nostalgia and innovation.
Chappell Roan made an impressive mark as she secured her first major award for Best New Artist, standing out among strong contenders such as Gracie Abrams and Tyla. Roan’s meteoric rise in the music industry continued this summer as she captivated audiences at various festivals, establishing a solid fan base. During her acceptance speech, she expressed heartfelt gratitude toward the drag community and the LGBTQ+ fans who inspire her.
Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter, performing “Espresso,” showcased her growth as an artist, winning Song of the Year in the process. Her performance, featuring an unexpected kiss with an alien on stage, was a delightful blend of creativity and fun, embodying the essence of the VMAs.
The Evolution of MTV and Its Impact on Pop Culture
The night wasn’t just about performances and awards; it also highlighted the rich history of the VMAs. Iconic performances were interspersed throughout the night, including flashbacks to memorable past moments such as Miley Cyrus twerking with Robin Thicke and Madonna’s legendary show in 1984. These references served to remind viewers of the show’s contribution to evolving music and pop culture.
Singer Katy Perry, known for her dynamic stage presence, was honored with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award and delivered a gravity-defying performance that left audiences in awe. Introduced by her fiancé Orlando Bloom, the medley combined hits from across her career, demonstrating her enduring popularity and artistic innovation.
In a touching moment during the evening, Flavor Flav presented Olympian Jordan Chiles with a custom-made bronze clock necklace after she lost her Olympic medal, symbolizing the resilience and perseverance represented at the awards.
Highlights of the Evening
Among the other standout moments included:
- LL Cool J and Public Enemy revisiting classic hip-hop roots, reminding the audience of the genre’s profound impact on the musical landscape.
- Anitta’s spirited celebration of her fans and Brazilian heritage highlighted an expanding space for Latin music in mainstream awards.
- LISA, hailing from BlackPink, accepted the award for Best K-Pop, further solidifying K-Pop’s influence in global music trends.
As the awards ceremony wrapped up, the conversations didn’t solely focus on the accolades earned. A significant thread across the night was the acknowledgment of diverse music genres and the artists working to bring them to the forefront. Tyla‘s acceptance speech for Best Afrobeats pointed out the importance of recognizing the variety within African music, advocating that it encompasses much more than just one singular genre.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards were truly emblematic of a vibrant and evolving music landscape. From Taylor Swift’s historic wins to the eclectic performances that spanned generations, the night encapsulated both celebration and nostalgia.
The VMAs showed once more that they are a great place for new artists to shine while also celebrating famous musicians from the past. As music keeps mixing different styles and creating new sounds, the VMAs play an important role in showcasing today’s performers and helping shape the future of music. With reminders of the past, we can’t wait to see what happens next year and who will take the stage in the next exciting chapter of the VMAs!
