2024 MTV VMAs: The VMAs of 2024 were so full of unforgettable performances, jaw-dropping moments, and huge wins at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Celebrating four decades of music and culture, the biggest names in music came together for this night, from industry veterans Taylor Swift and Eminem to rising sensations Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan. Here’s a full recap of the top moments, winners, and performances from the night.
The Return to New York
After two years in New Jersey at the Prudential Center, the 2024 VMAs came back to New York, where the awards began back in 1984. The show moved to UBS Arena this year, a transition that didn’t seem to impact how the performances of the night came together, even if the vibe was never quite as iconically energetic as VMAs past held at Radio City Music Hall or Barclays Center.
Big Winners of the Night
Once again, Taylor Swift ruled the night, hauling in numerous awards, including a record-extending fifth Video of the Year for “Fortnight,” her collaboration with Post Malone. The pop starlet, leading the pack of the night’s most-nominated artists with 10 nods, proved why she is unstoppable again.
Other big winners included:
- Best New Artist: Chappell Roan Breaking onto the scene with a stunning performance and a heartfelt, queer-positive acceptance speech, Roan’s win marked one of the night’s standout moments.
- Best Collaboration: Taylor Swift and Post Malone for “Fortnight” Their hit collaboration not only earned them critical acclaim but also fan-voted victory.
- Best Rock Video: Lenny Kravitz for “Human” A much-needed boost for rock music, Kravitz delivered a stellar performance to match his win.
Best Performances of the Night
The VMAs are known for their iconic performances, and while 2024 didn’t deliver many groundbreaking moments, there were still several standout sets:
- Taylor Swift & Post Malone: Their joint performance of “Fortnight” electrified the stage, showcasing their undeniable chemistry and artistry.
- Sabrina Carpenter’s Medley: Carpenter wowed audiences with a medley of her hits, including “Please, Please, Please” and “Taste.” Her set, complete with astronaut dancers, was a nod to the VMAs’ Moonman legacy.
- Lenny Kravitz: Bringing the rock element back to the VMAs, Kravitz performed a medley of “Are You Gonna Go My Way” and “Fly Away” with Migos’ Quavo, showing that even at 60, he’s still one of the best live performers in music.
- Chappell Roan: Performing her hit “Good Night, Babe!” Roan brought a raw energy and emotional depth that resonated with both the crowd and viewers at home.
The Night’s Low Points
While the VMAs are usually filled with excitement, a few moments fell flat in 2024:
- Eminem’s Throwback Performance: Despite being nominated six times for his video “Houdini,” Eminem’s performance, which felt like a rehash of his iconic 2000 VMAs appearance, left many feeling underwhelmed.
- Megan Thee Stallion’s Hosting: Hosting and performing double-duty, Megan Thee Stallion struggled to find the right balance. Her hosting moments lacked charisma, and while her medley performance was solid, it wasn’t enough to redeem the role.
- Lisa’s K-Pop Flop: Lisa, a global K-pop superstar, delivered a performance that felt more cheesy than epic, despite her army of backup dancers. Her set left fans wondering how such a big name could deliver such an uninspired performance.
Notable Absences
Several major artists were notably absent from this year’s VMAs, including Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, and SZA. Their absence left a noticeable gap in the lineup, especially given their contributions to pop music over the past year.
Controversies & Viral Moments
No VMAs would be complete without a bit of controversy, and 2024 delivered:
- Katy Perry & Orlando Bloom’s Cringe-worthy PDA: Perry was honored with the Video Vanguard Award, but her fiancé Orlando Bloom’s overly affectionate introduction, complete with a long kiss, made for an awkward moment that overshadowed her achievement.
- Camila Cabello’s “Caged” Performance: Cabello’s melodramatic performance of her new single “Godspeed” didn’t land with viewers, many of whom found the staging overly theatrical and the song too obscure for the VMAs.
While the 2024 MTV VMAs didn’t deliver the groundbreaking moments of yesteryear, the night still had its memorable highlights. Taylor Swift’s continued dominance, Chappell Roan’s breakthrough, and Lenny Kravitz’s rock revival all stood out. However, as the VMAs continue to evolve, it’s clear that the show’s cultural relevance is shifting, with fewer must-see moments and more performances that feel like filler.
FAQs About the 2024 MTV VMAs
1. Where were the 2024 MTV VMAs held?
The 2024 VMAs were held at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.
2. Who won Video of the Year at the 2024 VMAs?
Taylor Swift won Video of the Year for “Fortnight,” her collaboration with Post Malone.
3. Who performed at the 2024 VMAs?
Notable performers included Taylor Swift, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, Lenny Kravitz, Chappell Roan, and more.
4. Who hosted the 2024 VMAs?
Megan Thee Stallion hosted the 2024 VMAs, though her hosting was widely considered a low point of the night.
5. Which artists were absent from the 2024 VMAs?
Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, and SZA were notably absent from the event.
6. What was the biggest moment of the night?
Taylor Swift winning her fifth Video of the Year award was considered the biggest moment of the night.
7. Did any K-pop artists perform at the VMAs?
Yes, Lisa from BLACKPINK performed, though her set was met with mixed reviews.
8. How did Eminem perform at the 2024 VMAs?
Eminem’s performance, which was a throwback to his 2000 VMAs set, was considered disappointing and lacked the energy of his past shows.
9. What was the worst performance of the night?
Camila Cabello’s melodramatic “Godspeed” performance was widely considered one of the night’s weakest moments.
10. Who won Best New Artist at the 2024 VMAs?
Chappell Roan won the Best New Artist award after a powerful performance.