As a music enthusiast who has grown up listening to the diverse sounds of Africa and the catchy tunes of Western pop, I find Tyla’s words at the VMAs particularly resonant. Her journey mirrors my own as I’ve navigated the rich tapestry of global music, always eager to uncover new melodies and rhythms.
Over time, it seems that awards shows have struggled to keep viewers engaged; however, quite unexpectedly, the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards managed to hold my attention.
Let’s relive some highlights from last night’s live-streamed event held at UBS Arena, Belmont Park, New York.
PERFORMANCE OF THE NIGHT
Benson Boone’s breathtaking gymnastic tricks are so awe-inspiring that it seems fitting for him to represent us in the 2028 Olympics. If he decides not to join the gymnastics team, perhaps we could invite him to perform at the global event instead, maybe by showcasing his vocal talents.
The standout act of the evening showcased a stellar performance – he started off “Beautiful Things” on the piano and moved effortlessly across the stage as if he was a veteran performer, donning a sparkling navy outfit. His powerful vocals were impressive and had the crowd joining in with the catchy pop-rock TikTok sensation. Even Sabrina Carpenter couldn’t resist getting involved. To top it all off, he was awarded the title of best alternative act.
The notable achievement was earned by debutant Teddy Swims, who despite not receiving a standard performance spot, managed to make an impact with his appearances in brief performances that left everyone impressed on each occasion.
STRONG AND STEAMY AS ESPRESSO
At the VMAs, the carpenter captivated everyone with her catchy tunes, solidifying her status as the queen of pop for 2021. Her act was a delightful blend of whimsy, sensuality, and fun, even incorporating space-themed elements like aliens and astronauts.
Initially, she sang “Please Please Please” softly while on a swing in mid-air, then dancers costumed as aliens and astronauts joined her during “Taste.” Closing the performance was her iconic song “Espresso,” leaving us yearning for even more.
TAYLOR IS THE ‘T’ IN MTV
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but marvel at the number of Moonperson honors Taylor Swift has amassed in her illustrious career. And to see her sweep up an impressive seven awards during Wednesday’s VMAs, including the coveted video of the year for “Fortnight,” left me absolutely thrilled!
In a straightforward manner: The director of the video, Swift, mentioned that while the video may appear sad, she truly enjoyed making it. After completing a scene, she recalled hearing applause coming from across the studio set, and the source of that cheer was her boyfriend, Travis.
Whatever he handles during our production brings joy, laughter, and a touch of enchantment. So, I’d like to express my gratitude for his contributions, as those moments will be etched in my memory forever,” she added.
The day following her endorsement of Kamala Harris, Taylor Swift additionally praised her supporters for choosing “Fortnite” as the evening’s main award, and then stated: “And if you’re eighteen or older, please take a moment to register to vote for another matter that is incredibly significant.
During her first speech of the evening, when she was awarded best collaboration with Post Malone, Swift took the opportunity to remember and honor those affected by the events of September 11th, 23 years ago. “As I woke up in New York this morning on September 11th, my thoughts have been with all those who lost someone that day,” she expressed. “And what matters most today is remembering everyone who was lost. That is the most significant aspect of today’s events. Everything else that happens tonight pales in comparison.
SPEECH OF THE NIGHT
At the VMAs, Chappell Roan confidently and enthusiastically voiced her support for the LGBTQ community during her acceptance speech as a new artist.
Roan, after performing her hit ‘Good Luck, Babe!’, expressed gratitude by saying: ‘I’m dedicating this to the drag artists who inspire me and to all the queer and trans individuals who drive pop music. This is also for the gays who make my songs a tribute to someone they cherish or resent.’
I appreciate everyone who follows me, who takes time to listen to my stories, whether they’re about my happiness or my worries. Thank you for giving me your attention. To all the young individuals in the Midwest who are tuning in now, I see you, I understand your struggles because we share a similar journey. Never let anyone make you feel like you can’t be true to yourself and who you want to be.
In her victory speech for “Best Afrobeats” award with “Water,” Tyla emphasized that even as the genre flourishes, it’s crucial not to pigeonhole African artists by limiting them to just one musical style.
She commented, ‘It’s truly unique, yet tinged with sadness, as I’ve noticed a common practice of categorizing all African artists within the genre of Afrobeats.’
Though Afrobeats has been leading the way and providing numerous opportunities for us, African music is incredibly rich and varied. It’s not just about Afrobeats,” she emphasized, also acknowledging African artists such as Tems, Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, Rema, Wizkid, and Lojay.
FIREWORK, INDEED
Katy Perry delivered a concert reminiscent of a Super Bowl halftime show while receiving the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.
In 2008, this singer defied gravity by floating above the stage, seemingly walking on air and passing over her dancing companions in an astonishing display. It appeared as if we were witnessing magic unfold.
As a die-hard fan, I had the incredible opportunity to witness her belt out an array of my favorites, like “California Gurls,” “Dark Horse,” “E.T.,” “Teenage Dream,” “I Kissed a Girl,” and “Firework.” She also gave us a sneak peek into her new album, 143, performing some of the fresh tracks from it. What an unforgettable concert experience!
Orlando Bloom was there to honor her, and they shared a kiss on stage following her performance. “Even on my first day of my period, I managed that,” Perry joked afterwards. “Can you believe it?” She continued, “A big thank you to MTV for appreciating my quirkiness from the start and for assisting artists in expanding their creative realms beyond just a single song.
For an artist to have a lasting and thriving career, numerous factors must fall into place. It’s not a fluke that lasts for a decade,” Perry emphasized, giving the audience a moment to ponder her statement.
THEE TRIPLE THREAT
MTV might want to keep Megan Thee Stallion on speed dial for the 2025 VMAs.
As an ardent admirer, I had the privilege of witnessing the rapper take center stage. Not only did she gracefully host the event, but her electrifying performance left us all in awe. To top it off, she earned the prestigious award for “Best Art Direction” for her masterpiece, “BOA.
She kicked off the show in a VMA-themed bodysuit as the audience chanted her name. “I am repping Team VMA” — calling it the Voluptuous Megan Award.
“I deserve a gold medal for being a bad bitch,” she said to laughs.
Later, she decided to emulate Britney Spears’ iconic look from the 2001 VMAs, where she appeared on stage with an albino Burmese python draped around her. She playfully called out, “Grab this snake!” adding, “I held it down for Britney.
In the course of her show, she gracefully navigated the UBS Arena, performing popular tracks such as “Hiss” and “Mamushi.” Notably, she also invited Japanese rapper Yuki Chiba on stage with her.
She’s indeed a star, star, star, star.
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2024-09-12 07:25