The MTV Video Music Awards took place on Sunday night in New York, featuring some of the music industry’s biggest names in a spectacular event that celebrated both new and veteran talent.
For the first time in its 41-year history, the awards aired live on CBS and Paramount+, in addition to its traditional broadcast on MTV. This unprecedented move was aimed at enhancing the reach of the show, which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year.
CBS noted that the previous year’s awards had delivered its largest multi-network audience in four years, and were recognized as the most socially engaging VMAs ever.
This year’s VMAs had a new addition: two award categories were introduced, best pop artist and best country, designed to recognize emerging talent while honoring established artists like Mariah Carey and Ricky Martin.
The night was buzzing with viral moments, ranging from Doja Cat’s bold red carpet antics to spectacular performances and memorable acceptance speeches, including gratitude expressed by Rosé and Ariana Grande towards their therapists.
Among the night’s highlights was Mariah Carey, who made her first VMA appearance in 20 years. Dazzling in a gold bodysuit, she performed a medley of her hits before being presented with the coveted Video Vanguard Award by Ariana Grande, who bowed down in admiration.
Remarkably, Carey also won her first Moon Person trophy, taking home the award for best R&B video for her song ‘Type Dangerous’ during the pre-show.
“I can’t believe I’m getting my first VMA tonight. I just have one question: What in the Sam Hill were you waiting for?” she quipped, to the delight of the crowd.
Throughout her acceptance speech, Carey fondly recalled various memorable moments from her two decades away from the VMAs, emphasizing the evolution of music and videos while sharing her belief that the joy of music remains timeless.
Another major win included rapper Busta Rhymes, who finally received recognition for his extensive career by winning the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award. Rhymes delivered a powerful performance of his hits like ‘Break Ya Neck’ and ‘Touch It,’ alongside Joyner Lucas, Papoose, and GloRilla, all clad in striking red leather.
His acceptance speech was to the point: “Y’all know I usually do these long speeches, I’m not gonna do one today. But next time y’all take 35 years to give me one of these, y’all gonna let me talk as long as I want!” He also honored the late Ananda Lewis, an MTV VJ who passed away from breast cancer earlier this year.
Sabrina Carpenter made a meaningful statement during her performance of ‘Tears,’ which she debuted from her new album ‘Man’s Best Friend.’ Surrounded by renowned RuPaul’s Drag Race queens, Carpenter’s stage reflected a vibrant 1980s New York, promoting transgender rights and urging compassion and positivity in a world filled with negativity.
After winning best album for her upcoming work ‘Short n’ Sweet,’ Carpenter expressed her gratitude, particularly acknowledging her ‘queens’ who shared the stage, affirming her commitment to uplifting others.
Ricky Martin also made waves during the evening. After a captivating performance that saw him emerge in a cage to sing ‘Livin’ la Vida Loca,’ he became the first recipient of the Latin Icon Award, an accolade presented by former tour partner Jessica Simpson.
“This is for you all. Thank you so much for your applause. I am addicted to your applause, that’s why I keep coming back,” Martin shared emotionally. He dedicated the award to his four children, reinforcing his family’s significance in his career.
The night included a touching tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away in July at the age of 76. Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry joined forces with Yungblud and guitarist Nuno Bettencourt to celebrate Osbourne’s legacy.
The tribute began with a heartfelt introduction from Osbourne’s son Jack and his children, who expressed their desire to honor their father’s legacy by showcasing fellow musicians.
Onstage, Yungblud covered hits like ‘Crazy Train’ and ‘Changes,’ all while delivering an emotional message, concluding with a group hug and the heartfelt statement, ‘Ozzy forever, man!’
Lady Gaga, the night’s powerhouse with a staggering 12 nominations, won four awards, further solidifying her legacy with a total of 22 VMA wins — the third-highest ever behind Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.
In an impressive feat, she managed to be in two locations simultaneously. Gaga accepted the artist of the year award with a heartfelt speech, expressing how much it meant to her, before rushing to Madison Square Garden for her Mayhem Ball tour performance.
She concluded her acceptance speech, saying, ‘I wish I could stay and watch all these amazing performances, but I have to go back to Madison Square Garden.’ Her dual commitment was creatively addressed with a mesmerizing pre-recorded performance that aired during the VMAs.
With its blend of poignant tributes, stunning performances, and cultural statements, the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards marked a memorable night for the music industry, one that will resonate with fans and artists alike.
image source from：npr
