MTV Video Music Awards Return with Taylor Swift Leading the Pack: Will She Make History?
The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) are set to return Wednesday night, with all eyes on Taylor Swift, who leads the nominations with 12. These include eight nods for her hit music video Fortnight, along with nominations in two social categories and recognition in the coveted Best Pop and Artist of the Year categories.
Swift and Post Malone Dominate Nominations
Swift’s closest competitor this year is her Fortnight collaborator, Post Malone, who has garnered 11 nominations. The duo is nominated in 10 categories together, with Malone also receiving a nod for his chart-topping country single, “I Had Some Help,” featuring Morgan Wallen.
Can Taylor Swift Make VMAs History?
The question on everyone’s mind is whether Taylor Swift will attend the ceremony, but if she does, it could be a historic night for the pop icon. With 23 VMAs already to her name, she is within striking distance of Beyoncé’s record of 30. If Swift wins at least seven awards, she could tie or surpass Beyoncé as the most-awarded artist in VMA history.
Swift’s recent endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris has already made headlines. Should she take the stage, Swift might use her acceptance speeches to continue voicing her political support, a move that would add extra intrigue to the night.
Last year, Swift took home nine VMAs, bringing her total to 23, ahead of music legends like Madonna (20 awards) and Lady Gaga (19). This year, Beyoncé is also up for three awards, including Song of the Year for Texas Hold ’Em, making the competition particularly fierce.
Megan Thee Stallion to Host and Perform
This year’s VMAs will be hosted by rap sensation Megan Thee Stallion, marking her first time as an awards show host. Megan will also perform, bringing additional energy to the event. In the past two years, Nicki Minaj has taken on hosting duties, first with Lil Wayne and Jack Harlow in 2022 and then solo in 2023.
Katy Perry to Receive Video Vanguard Award
Katy Perry will be honored with the prestigious Video Vanguard Award, which celebrates an artist’s impact on the music industry through their groundbreaking music videos. Previous recipients of this award include Shakira, Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Madonna, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, and Missy Elliott. Perry will also perform live during the ceremony.
Star-Studded Performances and Appearances
The night promises a lineup of performances from some of the biggest stars in music. Eminem is set to open the show with a high-energy performance. Other scheduled performers include Benson Boone, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, GloRilla, Halsey, Lenny Kravitz, LISA, Rauw Alejandro, Karol G, LL COOL J, Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, and Anitta, who will be joined by Fat Joe, DJ Khaled, and Tiago PZK.
Where to Watch
The VMAs will take place at the UBS Arena on Long Island, New York, and will air live at 8 p.m. Eastern. Fans can tune in on MTV or catch the simulcast on BET, BET Her, CMT, Comedy Central, Logo, MTV2, Nick at Nite, Paramount Network, Pop, TV Land, VH1, and Univision for Spanish-speaking viewers.