The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards proved to be a resounding success for Taylor Swift, who walked away with a staggering seven awards, firmly establishing herself as the evening’s star. Swift not only collected multiple trophies but also added her seal of approval to the much-anticipated NSYNC reunion, shared the spotlight with notable seatmates Ice Spice and Sabrina Carpenter, and even had a dedicated MTV camera capturing her every move.
Amid the star-studded affair, the VMAs presented a captivating lineup of performances and memorable moments. The event kicked off with back-to-back performances by Lil Wayne and Olivia Rodrigo. Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion teamed up to deliver a powerful rendition of their new single, “Bongos.” Ice Spice claimed the title of Best New Artist, while Karol G delivered an electrifying performance, featuring a troupe of pink-clad, wig-wearing male dancers. Karol G and Shakira were recognized with the Best Collaboration award, Anitta triumphed in the Best Latin category, and Peso Pluma’s performance marked a historic moment as it introduced regional Mexican music to the VMAs for the first time.
Shakira graced the stage with a career-spanning performance in honor of her Video Vanguard award, while Diddy did the same as he received the Global Icon award. Rema and Selena Gomez’s collaboration, “Calm Down,” earned the Best Afrobeats accolade. Doja Cat’s performance, accompanied by a group of dancers covered in fake blood, left a lasting impression. Future, A Boogie, and others took the stage with Metro Boomin, and Nicki Minaj not only fulfilled her hosting duties but also treated the audience to her new single, “Last Time I Saw You,” along with an unreleased track from her upcoming album, “Pink Friday 2.”
The evening was not without its share of controversy, as MTV’s backstage cameras captured what appeared to be a heated exchange between Justin Timberlake and Megan Thee Stallion. However, an eyewitness backstage revealed that the interaction was, in fact, quite affectionate.
As the show extended into its fourth hour, Fall Out Boy delivered a fiery rendition of “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” Maneskin rocked the stage, and the night concluded with a celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary.
