The best and worst dressed from last night’s VMAs have taken the internet by storm.
Since its inception in 1984, the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) has been an annual spectacle that celebrates the intersection of music, art, and pop culture.
And over the decades, the VMAs have witnessed numerous iconic moments, legendary performances, and unforgettable controversies.
The concept for the VMAs came about during a time when music videos were becoming a significant part of the music industry.
MTV, launched in 1981, had already revolutionized the way people consumed music by making visuals as important as the music itself.
To honor the creativity and innovation in music videos, the network decided to create its own awards show.
So in 1984, the first MTV VMAs took place at Radio City Music Hall in New York City.
The event was hosted by Dan Aykroyd and Bette Midler.
And featured memorable performances by Madonna, The Eurythmics, and Prince.
The Video of the Year award went to “You Might Think” by The Cars.
Marking the beginning on a truly iconic awards show …
Madonna’s initial impact on the VMAs cannot be overstated.
Throughout the late ’80s and ’90s, she became synonymous with the awards show. Her performances were legendary, from the wedding dress-clad “Like a Virgin” in 1984 to the jaw-dropping “Like a Prayer” in 1989.
But the ’90s saw the rise of boy bands like *NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys.
As well as female pop stars like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera.
These artists dominated the VMAs, and the show became a platform for their elaborate and often controversial performances.
Britney’s 2001 performance of “I’m a Slave 4 U” with a live snake is still remembered as one of the most iconic moments in VMA history.
As hip-hop gained mainstream popularity in the late ’90s and early 2000s, it also took center stage at the VMAs.
Artists like Eminem, Kanye West, and Missy Elliott not only performed but also used the VMA platform to make statements about race, politics, and social issues.
And who could forget?
Kanye’s infamous interruption of Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech in 2009 remains one of the most talked-about moments in VMAs history.
As the digital age transformed the music industry, the VMAs adapted.
Social media played a significant role in audience engagement, with hashtags and viral moments becoming as important as the performances themselves.
Memorable moments like Miley Cyrus’s twerking in 2013 and Beyoncé’s pregnancy announcement in 2011 took the internet by storm.
Turning the awards show into a viral event.
In recent years, the VMAs have continued to evolve.
The focus has shifted towards more inclusive and socially conscious themes.
Performers and award winners have used their platform to advocate for causes such as gender equality, mental health awareness, and racial justice.
The show has also embraced a broader spectrum of music genres, recognizing the diversity of contemporary music.
The MTV Video Music Awards have come a long way since their inception in 1984.
And the VMAs continue to be a platform where artists can make their mark, push boundaries, and leave a lasting impact on the world of music and entertainment.
And this year’s ceremony was no exception.
The 2023 VMAs featured a plethora of firsts, thrilling performances, and a few offstage intrigues.
Rapper Lil Wayne kicked off the show with a tribute to the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.
Known for his explicit lyrics, Wayne’s performance was a mix of old and new songs that kept audiences on their toes.
Olivia Rodrigo took the stage for her first award show performance since releasing her sophomore album, “GUTS.”
Her fiery performance of “vampire” and the fan-favorite “get him back!” left viewers excited about her new music.
Taylor Swift, fresh from her record-setting Eras Tour, won multiple awards at the VMAs.
Notably, her hit “Anti-Hero” earned her the Video of the Year award, making it her fourth win in this category.
Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion returned to the stage together for their collaboration, “Bongos.”
Their electric performance showcased their undeniable chemistry and set the audience on fire.
While speculation ran wild, reports suggested that it was a friendly interaction.
Demi Lovato gave a powerful performance, offering a taste of her upcoming album, “REVAMPED.”
She reimagined her hits like “Heart Attack,” “Sorry Not Sorry,” and “Cool For The Summer” in a rock style.
Doja Cat’s performance featured a mob of back-up dancers, reminiscent of her “Attention” single cover.
Their blood-soaked appearance added a thrilling and mysterious element to her set.
Shakira received the Video Vanguard Award and delivered a decade-spanning performance.
Including classics like “Whenever, Wherever” and newer hits like “TQG” with Karol G.
Nicki Minaj performed her new single, “Last Time I Saw You,” followed by an unreleased rap-oriented song.
Her performance marked the lead-up to her forthcoming album, “Pink Friday 2.”
Brazilian superstar Anitta won the Best Latin award, beating out heavyweights like Bad Bunny.
She delivered stellar performances of her own songs and later joined K-pop group TOMORROW X TOGETHER on stage.
Diddy celebrated his legacy with a performance featuring hits like “I’ll Be Missing You” and “Last Night.”
He shared the stage with Keyshia Cole and his son Christian Combs.
The night celebrated the 50th anniversary of hip-hop with performances by iconic acts.
Including Grandmaster Flash, Doug E. Fresh, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, LL Cool J, and Run DMC, bringing the audience to their feet for a memorable finale.
However, the night was not without controversy …
Some viewers speculated that artists at the VMAs were lip-syncing during their performances, sparking discussions about authenticity in live shows!
Another moment really got the internet talking.
As *NSYNC reunited on stage for the first time in over a decade.
Yep, you heard right.
Justin Timberlake, Chris Kirkpatrick, Lance Bass, Joey Fatone and JC Chasez reunited on the VMA stage!
All 5 members of *NSYNC all got together Tuesday to present the award for best pop video.
The band even walked out to out to “Bye Bye Bye,” a VMA classic.
The award, of course, went to Taylor Swift.
And as she accepted it, she went full on fangirl.
She hugged each member of the band individually.
And Lance even gave Taylor a friendship bracelet!
Another controversial moment of the night all had to do with Selena Gomez and Chris Brown.
Brown was nominated alongside Chloe for the Best R&B VMA for her track “How Does it Feel.”
However, it seems Gomez wasn’t impressed with the nomination.
As when his name was mentioned, she scrunched up her nose in disgust.
“I would’ve reacted the same way. Chris Brown shouldn’t be eligible for any awards,” one fan wrote.
Take a look at the video right here …
But aside from all the controversies, celebrities certainly served us some interesting outfits …
So, let’s start with our top five …
