MTV Video Music Awards: 7 Memorable Moments

The MTV Video Music Awards celebrated its 40th anniversary on Wednesday night, with the event heavily leaning into nostalgia by recognizing iconic performances and memorable moments from its history. The broadcast featured montages showcasing "V.M.A. flashbacks," including Michael Jackson affectionately kissing Lisa Marie Presley, Madonna's provocative dance during "Like a Virgin," and Eminem making a bold entrance with a group of look-alikes sporting bleached hair.

Taylor Swift Sets a Record

Taylor Swift made history at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards by becoming the most decorated solo artist in VMA history, taking home seven Moon Person trophies throughout the night. This achievement tied her with Beyoncé for the most overall VMA Awards, with Swift's solo endeavors contributing to her total tally.

Swift's victory was marked with a celebratory speech that acknowledged her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. She expressed gratitude for the fun and magical experience of making her video for "Fortnight," highlighting Kelce's presence on set, which brought joy and fun to the production.

Chappell Roan's Stellar Debut

Chappell Roan claimed her first Moon Person trophy with a win for best new artist. Her performance of "Good Luck, Babe!" was a standout moment, featuring a medieval chainmail dress that paid homage to Fiona Apple's iconic image in the nineties. Roan's acceptance speech was equally impactful, thanking MTV, her record label, friends, and family, as well as queer and trans individuals who "fuel pop" and gay people who dedicate her songs to someone they love or hate.

Sabrina Carpenter's Alien Kiss

Sabrina Carpenter's performance of "Short n' Sweet" included a playful kiss with an alien, bringing a delightful touch of quirky energy to the evening. This performance added to the playful spirit that infused the event, with Carpenter delivering a memorable moment that was both entertaining and engaging.

Katy Perry's Medley and QR Code Tattoo

Katy Perry's medley of hits, including "Teenage Dream," "Dark Horse," and "Firework," brought nostalgic excitement to the crowd. Her performance also included a shoutout to the LGBTQ+ community, recognizing the importance of their support in her career. Additionally, Perry's appearance showcased a QR code tattoo on her back, an unconventional choice for a permanent tattoo, though it was unclear if this was a temporary design or a statement piece.

Flavor Flav and Jordan Chiles' Awards Presentation

Public Enemy's Flavor Flav presented the first award of the night to Olympian Jordan Chiles, who had been stripped of her gymnastics bronze medal. Flav surprised Chiles with a bronze clock necklace and promised to pay her the cash award she would have received as a third-place finisher. This gesture was a heartfelt moment, highlighting the support and solidarity that the music industry can offer to athletes and individuals facing challenges.

Megan Thee Stallion as Host

Megan Thee Stallion served as the host of the event, sporting various ensembles throughout the night. One outfit in particular stood out as it paid tribute to Britney Spears' iconic "I'm a Slave 4 U" look from 2001, complete with a yellow boa constrictor. While her apparent unease with the snake added a humorous twist, her electric performance kept the audience engaged.

LL Cool J's Performance

LL Cool J commemorated the 40th anniversary of Def Jam Recordings with a medley of his hits, including "Mama Said Knock You Out" and "Bring the Noise." Joined by Flavor Flav and Chuck D of Public Enemy, this performance marked a significant milestone in hip-hop history, blending nostalgia with modern energy.

In conclusion, the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards delivered a mix of nostalgic nods to its history and fresh performances from emerging artists. The event's balance between old and new made it a memorable celebration of music and entertainment, with each moment contributing to a vibrant and dynamic evening.