The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with a stellar lineup of guests, presenters, and performances, hosted at New York’s UBS Arena. The award show honored its pop culture legacy through flashbacks of iconic stages and moments of Madonna, Michael Jackson, Miley Cyrus, Britney Spears, and more. The 3-hour affair consisted of 18 performances by some of the biggest current and upcoming names in music. However, there were 5 that stood out in terms of charisma, design, and energy.
1. Sabrina Carpenter
First up is Pop princess of the night, Sabrina Carpenter. Her years of curating unique lyricism, vocal style, and fashion proved massively successful through a medley stage of her Billboard smash hits, including “Please, Please, Please,” “Taste,” and of course, the crowned Song Of The Year, “Espresso.” Decked out in silver and white sparkles, Sabrina delivered a poised yet playful performance alongside moon men and aliens, nodding at the VMA’s mascot. Every voice in the arena sang, “I’m working late, ‘cause I’m a singer” as if it was the new gospel.
2. Chappell Roan
Officially Sasha Colby’s “daughter,” Chappell Roan impressed again with a campy, medieval-inspired performance of “Good Luck Babe!”. Winning Best New Artist, there is no doubt that 2024 has been a massive year in her career, and this stage solidified her presence in the Pop space for years to come. Maybe it’s the powerful belting vocals, maybe it’s the impeccable custom chainmail outfit; or is it the castle set bathed in fire? There is a tangible hunger for and dedication to reinvention, as Chappell can retell the song’s story in different ways, breathing a new life into it with each performance.
3. Megan Thee Stallion
The hostess with the most and crowd favorite Megan Thee Stallion lit up the show with an energetic medley performance, featuring multiple stages across the arena. One thing the rap star will do is drop jaws, whether it’s with high-level, intense choreography, or with bars so clever and quick-witted, that one cannot help but be a fan. The medley included “BOA,” which won Best Art Direction, and “Mamushi” featuring Yuki Chiba, which won “Best Trending Video.” Megan exudes an infectious enthusiasm for her craft and a strong sense of individuality. She has always incorporated personal interests into her work; now, it’s her superpower.
4. Rauw Alejandro
Puerto Rican entertainer extraordinaire Rauw Alejandro made his mark with a dynamic mash-up of “Touching The Sky,” “Dejame Entrar,” and a refreshing Bomba rendition of “Diluvio.” In Latin music‘s widely diverse landscape, Rauw keeps himself at the top by constantly delivering smooth, catchy vocals and engaging choreography that honors his roots. He is a true all-rounder, creating an immersive atmosphere with the design story of his performance. Although he did not take home any awards, he was rightly nominated twice for Best Latin and Best Choreography.
5. Benson Boone
Last, but not least is rising star Benson Boone, who performed his Best Alternative-winning song “Beautiful Things” with unforgettable spirit. The performance began calmly with just him, his pitch-perfect voice, and a piano. Paired with the crescendo of the chorus, he sprinkles in a flawless front flip off a platform, then continues to belt unshakably. In stark contrast to the track’s original earthy, grungey music video, Benson adorns himself in a shimmering blue jumpsuit, wonderfully matching the iconic flashiness of the VMAs. He closed the explosive performance with a soaring backflip off the grand piano. Now that is commitment!
Overall, the 2024 Video Music Awards shined a light on some of the best talents of this generation, providing moments that will surely make it into future flashback clips at the next anniversary.
To relive performances from one of the most popular nights in music check out the MTV YouTube Channel or website.