The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards took place at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on Wednesday, September 11. Hosted by Megan Thee Stallion, this year’s show was filled with consistent, innovative, and impressive performances.The VMAs are celebrating 40 years since their first show, which was held at Radio City Music Hall on September 14, 1984. One of that night’s big winners, Cyndi Lauper, made an appearance this year, introducing a performance by breakthrough artist Sabrina Carpenter.
Throughout the broadcast, viewers were treated to flashbacks of both iconic and quirky moments from VMAs past.
We’re revisiting some of the show’s most memorable moments that have turned the VMAs into the cultural phenomenon they are today,” Bruce Gillmer, an executive producer of the show, told Billboard. It’s like a homecoming, where we’ll mark 40 years with a look back at legendary onstage and on-screen moments.
Fitting for this milestone, the 2024 VMAs made history, with Taylor Swift tying Beyoncé as the all-time top VMA winner. Swift, who recently endorsed Kamala Harris for President, attended the event to accept two awards and honor the victims of 9/11 on its anniversary.
But as always, the performances stole the spotlight. From Katy Perry’s Video Vanguard medley to LL COOL J’s tribute to Def Jam, here are the best performances of the 2024 VMAs, ranked from worst to best.
16. LISA: A missed opportunity
LISA, a member of BLACKPINK, is known for her amazing choreography and striking visuals. However, her solo performance of “New Woman” at the 2024 VMAs fell short, lacking the energy and impact needed for such a big stage.
15. Anitta feat. Fat Joe, DJ Khaled, and Tiago PZK: A Lackluster medley
Anitta delivered her usual on-point choreography, but her medley with DJ Khaled, Fat Joe, and Tiago PZK lacked the punch to stand out among the night’s stronger acts.
14. Camila Cabello: Heartfelt but underwhelming
Camila’s emotionally charged single “Godspeed” was heartfelt but didn’t quite resonate toward the end of the long broadcast. Despite a smashing finale, it felt more like a personal vent than a crowd favorite.
13. GloRilla: Timing Is everything
GloRilla brought the heat (literally) with “Yeah Glo!” and “TGIF,” but the late-night timing dulled the impact of her fiery set for those watching live.
12. Eminem: A nostalgic opener
Eminem kicked off the show with his song “Houdini” and a flashback to his 2000 VMAs performance, complete with Slim Shady lookalikes. His raw, confessional collab with Jelly Roll was another highlight.
Read more: Eminem’s “Curtain Call: The Hits” Becomes first hip-hop album to achieve diamond certification
11. Shawn Mendes: A cozy living room vibe
Shawn Mendes debuted his new song “Nobody Knows” on a stage designed to look like a cozy living room, showing off his vocal talent and maturing songwriting skills.
10. Lenny Kravitz feat. Quavo: Rock meets hip-hop
Lenny Kravitz returned with his classic rock hit “Are You Gonna Go My Way” and new single “Human,” joined by Quavo for a trap remix of “Fly.”
Read more: Quavo Plans To Drop New Music After Meeting President to Discuss Gun Violence
9. Halsey: A rocking garage set
Halsey rocked out with “Ego,” channeling My Chemical Romance vibes while playing electric guitar in a cozy garage-themed set.
8. Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba: High energy medley
As host and performer, Megan Thee Stallion brought high energy with a medley from her new album, culminating in an epic duet with Japanese rapper Yuki Chiba.
Read more: Megan Thee Stallion and RM Unveil “Neva Play” Music Video
7. LL COOL J feat. Public Enemy: Tribute to Def Jam
LL COOL J and Public Enemy kept old-school rap alive with a tribute to Def Jam, featuring classic hits like “Mama Said Knock You Out” and “Bring the Noise.”
Read more: LL Cool J Celebrates New School Hip Hop Artists Like Saweetie and Lil Durk
6. Benson Boone: Acrobatic performance
Benson Boone wowed with his acrobatic performance of “Beautiful Things,” managing a flawless flip while maintaining pitch-perfect vocals.
5. Rauw Alejandro: A dynamic showcase
Rauw Alejandro’s dynamic performance, set against an NYC skyline, showcased his dance moves, style, and smooth vocals with a medley of “Touching the Sky,” “Diluvio,” and “Déjame Entrar.”
4. Katy Perry: A pop icon’s medley
Katy Perry’s Video Vanguard medley reminded fans why she’s a pop icon. Performing hits like “Firework” and “Dark Horse,” Perry’s visuals and vocals were a masterclass in pop performance.
3. Karol G: Latin pop vibrance
Karol G delivered a standout performance with “Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido,” moving confidently through the crowd while embodying Latin pop’s vibrant rhythms.
2. Chappell Roan: Theatrical brilliance
Chappell Roan’s theatrical set, complete with medieval armor and a flaming crossbow, was an unforgettable display of her unique pop artistry.
1. Sabrina Carpenter: Show-stopping star power
Sabrina Carpenter’s performance was nothing short of show-stopping. From her diamond-encrusted swing entrance to her moon-themed stage and retro Hollywood glam, Carpenter made it clear she’s a force to be reckoned with in pop music.
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