Taylor Swift and Katy Perry Make History at 2024 MTV VMAs

Taylor Swift cemented her place in history at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), taking home seven trophies, including the coveted Video of the Year award for Fortnight, her collaboration with Post Malone. This win brings her career total to 30 VMA awards, tying her with Beyoncé as the most-awarded artist in the ceremony’s 40-year history.

Swift’s Fortnight video, shot in a stark psychiatric hospital setting, resonated deeply with fans.

“This video seems very sad when you watch it, but it was actually the most fun video to make,” Swift said during her acceptance speech.

She also gave a special shout-out to her boyfriend, NFL player Travis Kelce, saying, “Everything this man touches turns to happiness and fun and magic.”

Aside from sweeping awards, Swift used her platform to encourage her fans to vote in the upcoming U.S. presidential election, though she stopped short of mentioning her public endorsement of Kamala Harris. The pop icon also shared a reflective moment, honouring the victims of the September 11 attacks in New York City.

Katy Perry Wins Video Vanguard Award

Katy Perry also made headlines by winning the prestigious Video Vanguard award, MTV’s version of a lifetime achievement honour. She delivered a high-energy performance featuring a medley of her biggest hits, including Firework and Teenage Dream. Afterward, she quipped about performing on the first day of her period, showcasing her humour and resilience. Perry’s husband, Orlando Bloom, presented her with the award, praising her passion and dedication.

Breakout Star Chappell Roan Takes Home Best New Artist

Chappell Roan, who emerged as one of the breakout stars of the night, took home the award for Best New Artist. Roan’s mediaeval-themed performance of Good Luck, Babe wowed audiences, with flames, armour, and a powerful message to queer youth in the Midwest: “Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t be exactly who you want to be.”

Other notable moments included performances from Eminem, who delivered his hit Houdini with dozens of lookalikes sporting his signature bleach-blonde hair, and Blackpink’s Lisa, who won Best K-pop Video for Rockstar. Sabrina Carpenter, winner of Song of the Year for Espresso, added some extra sparkle by wearing Madonna’s iconic 1991 Oscars gown and closing her performance with a kiss from an alien.

The 2024 MTV VMAs were a night of star power, memorable performances, and historic milestones, proving once again that the event is a cornerstone of pop culture.