MTV VMAS

Who Are The Performers For The 2023 MTV VMAs?

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The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards are starting in just a few hours from the Prudential Center in New Jersey, and if you were still wondering who all is performing tonight, Uproxx has you covered. This year’s performers include Anitta, Cardi B, Demi Lovato, Diddy, Doja Cat, Fall Out Boy, Karol G, Kelsea Ballerini, Lil Wayne, Måneskin, Megan Thee Stallion, Metro Boomin (who will be joined by A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Future, NAV, and Swae Lee), Nicki Minaj, Olivia Rodrigo, Peso Pluma, Shakira, Stray Kids, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER.

In addition, there’s a special performance planned for the 50th anniversary of hip-hop which will include pioneers like DMC, Doug E. Fresh, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, LL Cool J, Lil Wayne, and Nicki Minaj.

Many of these performers are also nominated for honors, including Diddy, who’s going to be given a Global Icon Award, and Shakira, who’s due to receive a Video Vanguard Award). Several are also due to present awards along with stars like Chloe Bailey, Coco Jones, GloRilla, Rita Ora, Saweetie, and more.

The VMAs are due to air at 8 pm ET/PT so stay tuned for all of Uproxx’s coverage.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Who Are The Award Presenters For The 2023 MTV VMAs?

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Tonight (September 12) in Newark, New Jersey, the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards are being held at the Prudential Center.

With just a few hours to go until the official awards show kicks off, they have unveiled the slate of presenters who will be helping out. Fans can expect to catch Chloe and Halle Bailey, Dove Cameron, GloRilla, Reneé Rapp, Sabrina Carpenter, and more stars taking the stage to hand out the spaceman trophies.

Saweetie, who is among the show presenters, will be hosting the pre-show that starts at 6:30 p.m.

The VMAs have also revealed some of the night’s biggest honorees ahead of time. Shakira will be receiving the Video Vanguard Award. Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to get the Global Icon Award. And both are on the lineup to perform tonight.

Fans will be able to watch the show live starting at 8 p.m. ET.

Continue scrolling for the complete list of 2023 VMAs award presenters.

A Boogie Wit da Hoodie
Anuel AA
Ashanti
Bebe Rexha
Billy Porter
Charli D’Amelio
Chloe Bailey
Coco Jones
Dixie D’Amelio
Dove Cameron
Emily Ratajkowski
Fat Joe
French Montana
GloRilla
Halle Bailey
Jared Leto
Madelyn Cline
Nelly Furtado
Reneé Rapp
Rita Ora
Sabrina Carpenter
Saweetie
Shenseea
Thalia
Tiffany Haddish
Timbaland
Wyclef Jean

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

The 2023 VMAs Will Get A Little ‘Bongos’ Thanks To A Special Cardi B & Megan Thee Stallion Performance

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The 2023 VMAs are gearing up to be a night of epic portions. On Tuesday, August 22, the organizers announced a jam-packed lineup of featured performers, which initially included Lil Wayne, Demi Lovato, Stray Kids, and more, promising that the list was still growing. On Friday, September 8, it was revealed that Nicki Minaj would not only fill in as the night’s host but also perform.

But the announcements are far from over. On Saturday, September 9, in a post shared on the event’s official X (formerly Twitter) page, it was revealed that Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion will also be performing. “🚨 THIS IS NOT A DRILL: @IAMCARDIB & @THEESTALLION ARE PERFORMING AT THE 2023 #VMAS 🚨,” read the announcement. “Don’t miss their first-ever performance of ‘Bongos‘ – TUESDAY at 8p on @MTV.”

The duo’s Grammys performance of their smash single “WAP” set the internet ablaze, so this follow-up is sure to do the same.

Although Taylor Swift and SZA lead the pack with the most VMA nominations, Cardi and Megan are up for a few awards. Cardi B is nominated in the Best Hip-Hop category for her collaborative track, “Tomorrow 2,” featuring GloRilla. Megan Thee Stallion has been nominated for three awards, namely Best Direction (“Her” directed by Colin Tilley), Best Choreography (“Her” choreography by Sean Bankhead), and Best Art Direction (“Her” art direction by Niko Philipides).

The 2023 MTV VMAs will take place on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on MTV. To watch, tune in via MTV.com live stream or on Paramount+. Find more information here.

Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Nicki Minaj Will Be On Double Duty At The 2023 VMAs Awards As Host And Featured Performer

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It’s Barbie’s world if you’re still in doubt. As the 2023 VMAs return to Newark, New Jersey’s Prudential Center, on September 12, rapper Nicki Minaj will be on double duty for the evening. In August, organizers announced Lil Wayne, Demi Lovato, Stray Kids, Karol G, and more would grace the ceremony’s stage for the evening. However, there was one substantial pink omission: the head Barb herself. Today (September 8), that has changed.

On X (formerly Twitter), the event organizers revealed that the “Last Time I Saw You” rapper would not only be performing for the crowd mixed with music professionals and fans, but in addition to that, she would serve as the evening’s host.

“BAAAAAARBZ @NICKIMINAJ IS PERFORMING AT THE 2023 #VMAs, AND she’s our emcee for the night!! Watch her LIVE ~ TUESDAY at 8p on @MTV [pink bow emoji],” read the post.

Minaj is up for several awards at the 2023 VMAs, including Video Of The Year (“Super Freaky Girl”), Artist Of The Year, Best Hip-Hop (“Super Freaky Girl”), Best R&B (Yung Bleu & Nicki Minaj – “Love In The Way”), and Best Visual Effects (“Super Freaky Girl” – Visual Effects by Max Colt and Sergio Mashevskyi).

Last year, Minaj also performed a mashup of her biggest hits. She was also bestowed the coveted Vanguard Award, the highest honor from the event.

The 2023 MTV VMAs will take place on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on MTV. To watch, tune in via MTV.com live stream or on Paramount+. Find more information here.

Diddy Will Be Honored With A Special Award During The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards (And He’s Performing, Too)

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The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards is only a week away from being held in New Jersey on Sept. 12. To get fans excited, they have unveiled some of the major award recipients. One of which is Diddy, who is being honored this year with the Global Icon Award.

The specific award first originated from the MTV Europe Music Awards, with the intent of honoring artists who have achieved worldwide success. (Diddy previously hosted the EMAs back in 2002.)

He will accept the official honor and give a speech during the awards show next week. Additionally, Diddy will perform at the VMAs, marking his grand return to the stage since 2005, according to Variety.

Diddy is nominated for a few other awards this year too, including Best Collaboration and Best R&B for the “Creepin (Remix)” with Metro Boomin, The Weeknd, and 21 Savage. He is also up twice for collaborations, as his “Gotta Move On (Queens Remix)” that features Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, and Yung Miami is also nominated.

Finally, Diddy is up for Best Hip-Hop for the same “Gotta Move On” song is also included. (Votes for these categories have since closed.)

Fans can catch this year’s Video Music Awards at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Sept. 12 airing live from the Prudential Center.

Doja Cat, Anitta, And Lil Wayne Join The List Of 2023 VMAs Performers

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The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards have added a slew of new performers. After previously announcing Demi Lovato, Karol G, Måneskin and Stray Kids, today, the show announced Anitta, Doja Cat, Kelsea Ballerini, Lil Wayne, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER — all of whom are also nominated for awards, except for Ballerini, whose birthday is the night of the show. The show is scheduled to air live from Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey on Tuesday, September 12 at 8 pm ET/PT.

The nominees for this year’s awards include Blackpink, Diddy, Doja Cat, Kim Petras, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Olivia Rodrigo, Sam Smith, Shakira, SZA, and Taylor Swift. Swift leads all nominees this year with eight selections for Video Of The Year, Artist Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Best Pop, Best Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, and Best Editing. SZA is right on her heels with six, for Video Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Best R&B, Best Direction, Best Art Direction, and Best Editing.

Shakira will also be the sixth consecutive woman to be honored with a Video Vanguard Award. The most recent winners include Nicki Minaj, Missy Elliott, Jennifer Lopez, Pink, and Rihanna.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Demi Lovato, Stray Kids, And More Will Perform At The 2023 Video Music Awards, With More Acts TBA

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The MTV Video Music Awards for 2023 are just a few weeks away, as they’ll be hosted at New Jersey’s Prudential Center on September 12. To give those either attending or watching an idea of who will be performing, they’ve unveiled the first round of musical acts.

Demi Lovato will be returning to the VMAs after six years, gearing up for the release of their album, Revamped. The project finds them putting a rock-inspired shift on the biggest hits across their career, complete with modern vocals.

Karol G is on the performance lineup for the first time. The musician is also nominated for three awards, including Artist Of The Year. Stray Kids will also be giving their first performance from the VMAs stage, performing their hit “S-Class” from their latest album, according to Variety. The song was also nominated for Best K-Pop.

Finally, rounding out the first drop of performers is Måneskin, who rose to prominence during the Eurovision Song Contest. The group found mainstream success with their hit “Beggin” and previously won a VMA for Best Alternative. Now, they are returning to promote a new single, “Honey (Are You Coming?).”

Fans can still vote through September 1 for who they want to win the awards in most categories. Find more information here.

Taylor Swift, SZA, And Doja Cat Lead The Nominations For The 2023 MTV VMAs

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The official nominations list for the 2023 MTV VMAs is here. Taylor Swift leads the pack with eight nominations (Video Of The Year, Artist Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Best Pop, Best Direction, Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, and Best Editing). SZA is the second most nominated act, with a total of six (Video Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Best R&B, Best Direction, Best Art Direction, and Best Editing)

Meanwhile, Doja Cat, Kim Petras, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Olivia Rodrigo, and Sam Smith are all tied for third spot with five nominations. Blackpink, Diddy, and Shakira follow with four nominations each. The ceremony will be broadcasted live on Tuesday, September 12, beginning at 8 p.m. ET from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Fan voting for several of this year’s categories, including the newly formed Best Afrobeats, Video Of The Year, and Artist Of The Year, begins today (August 8) and will run until the day of the show (September 12). However, the voting from Group Of The Year and Song Of The Summer will be conducted at a later date. Find more information here.

View the full list of nominations for the 2023 MTV VMAs below.

Video Of The Year

Doja Cat – “Attention”
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers”
Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl”
Olivia Rodrigo – “Vampire”
Sam Smith & Kim Petras – “Unholy”
SZA – “Kill Bill”
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero”

Artist Of The Year

Beyoncé
Doja Cat
KAROL G
Nicki Minaj
Shakira
Taylor Swift

Song Of The Year

Miley Cyrus – “Flowers”
Olivia Rodrigo – “Vampire”
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down”
Sam Smith & Kim Petras – “Unholy”
Steve Lacy – “Bad Habit”
SZA – “Kill Bill”
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero”

Best New Artist

GloRilla
Ice Spice
Kaliii
Peso Pluma
PinkPantheress
Reneé Rapp

Push Performance Of The Year

August 2022: Saucy Santana – “Booty”
September 2022: Stephen Sanchez – “Until I Found You”
October 2022: JVKE – “Golden Hour”
November 2022: Flo Milli – “Conceited”
December 2022: Reneé Rapp – “Colorado”
January 2023: Sam Ryder – “All The Way Over”
February 2023: Armani White – “GOATED”
March 2023: FLETCHER – “Becky’s So Hot”
April 2023: TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Sugar Rush Ride”
May 2023: Ice Spice – “Princess Diana”
June 2023: FLO – “Losing You”
July 2023: Lauren Spencer Smith – “That Part”

Best Collaboration

David Guetta & Bebe Rexha – “I’m Good (Blue)”
Post Malone & Doja Cat – “I Like You (A Happier Song)”
Diddy feat. Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, Yung Miami – “Gotta Move On”
KAROL G & Shakira – “TQG”
Metro Boomin with The Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy – “Creepin’ (Remix)”
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down”

Best Pop

Demi Lovato – “Swine”
Dua Lipa – “Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album)”
Ed Sheeran – “Eyes Closed”
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers”
Olivia Rodrigo – “Vampire”
P!NK – “TRUSTFALL”
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero”

Best Hip-Hop

Diddy feat. Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, Yung Miami – “Gotta Move On”
DJ Khaled feat. Drake & Lil Baby – “STAYING ALIVE”
GloRilla & Cardi B – “Tomorrow 2”
Lil Uzi Vert – “Just Wanna Rock”
Lil Wayne feat. Swizz Beatz & DMX – “Kant Nobody”
Metro Boomin feat. Future – “Superhero (Heroes and Villains)”
Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl”

Best R&B

Alicia Keys feat. Lucky Daye – “Stay”
Chlöe feat. Chris Brown – “How Does It Feel”
Metro Boomin with The Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy – “Creepin’ (Remix)
SZA – “Shirt”
Toosii – “Favorite Song”
Yung Bleu & Nicki Minaj – “Love In The Way”

Best Alternative

Blink-182 – “Edging”
Boygenius – “The Film”
Fall Out Boy – “Hold Me Like A Grudge”
Lana Del Rey feat. Jon Batiste – “Candy Necklace”
Paramore – “This Is Why”
Thirty Seconds To Mars – “Stuck”

Best Rock

Foo Fighters – “The Teacher”
Linkin Park – “Lost (Original Version)”
Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Tippa My Tongue”
Måneskin – “THE LONELIEST”
Metallica – “Lux Æterna”
Muse – “You Make Me Feel Like It’s Halloween”

Best Latin

Anitta – “Funk Rave”
Bad Bunny – “WHERE SHE GOES”
Eslabon Armado & Peso Pluma – “Ella Baila Sola”
KAROL G & Shakira – “TQG”
ROSALÍA – “DESPECHÁ”
Shakira – “Acróstico”

Best K-Pop

Aespa – “Girls”
BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom”
FIFTY FIFTY – “Cupid”
SEVENTEEN – “Super”
Stray Kids – “S-Class”
TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Sugar Rush Ride”

BEST AFROBEATS

Ayra Starr – “Rush”
Burna Boy – “It’s Plenty”
Davido feat. Musa Keys – “UNAVAILABLE”
Fireboy DML & Asake –”Bandana”
Libianca – “People”
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down”
Wizkid feat Ayra Starr– “2 Sugar”

Video For Good

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Orchestral)
Bad Bunny – “El Apagón – Aquí Vive Gente”
Demi Lovato – “Swine”
Dove Cameron – “Breakfast”
Imagine Dragons – “Crushed”
Maluma – “La Reina”

Best Direction

Doja Cat – “Attention” – Directed by Tanu Muiño
Drake – “Falling Back” – Director X (Julien Christian Lutz)
Kendrick Lamar – “Count Me Out” – Directed by Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – Directed by Colin Tilley
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Directed by Floria Sigismondi
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Directed by Christian Breslauer
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Directed by Taylor Swift

Best Cinematography

Adele – “I Drink Wine” – Cinematography by Adam Newport-Berra
Ed Sheeran – “Eyes Closed” – Cinematography by Natasha Baier
Janelle Monae – “Lipstick Lover” – Cinematography by Allison Anderson
Kendrick Lamar – “Count Me Out” – Cinematography by Adam Newport-Berra
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Cinematography by Marcell Rev
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Cinematography by Russ Fraser
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Cinematography by Rina Yang

Best Visual Effects

Fall Out Boy – “Love From The Other Side” – Visual Effects by Thomas Bailey and Josh Shaffner
Harry Styles – “Music For A Sushi Restaurant” – Visual Effects by Chelsea Delfino and Black Kite Studios
Melanie Martinez – “VOID” – Visual Effects by Carbon
Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl” – Visual Effects by Max Colt and Sergio Mashevskyi
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Visual Effects by Max Colt / FRENDER
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Visual Effects by Parliament

Best Choreography

BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – Choreography by Kiel Tutin, Sienna Lalau, Lee Jung (YGX), Taryn Cheng (YGX)
Dua Lipa – “Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album)” – Choreography by Charm LaDonna
Jonas Brothers – “Waffle House” – Choreography by Jerry Reece
Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Panic! At The Disco – “Middle Of A Breakup” – Choreography by Monika Felice Smith
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Choreography by (LA)HORDE – Marine Brutti, Jonathan Debrouwer, Arthur Harel

Best Art Direction

boygenius – “the film” – Art Direction by Jen Dunlap
BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – Art Direction by Seo Hyun Seung (GIGANT)
Doja Cat – “Attention” – Art Direction by Spencer Graves
Lana Del Rey ft. Jon Batiste – “Candy Necklace” – Art Direction by Brandon Mendez
Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – Art Direction by Niko Philipides
SZA – “Shirt” – Art Direction by Kate Bunch

Best Editing

BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – Editing by Seo Hyun Seung (GIGANT)
Kendrick Lamar – “Rich Spirit” – Edited by Grason Caldwell
Miley Cyrus – “River” – Edited by Brandan Walter
Olivia Rodrigo – “Vampire” – Edited by Sofia Kerpan and David Checel
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Edited by Luis Caraza Peimbert
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Edited by Chancler Haynes

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

SZA Among Nomination Leaders for 2023 MTV Video Music Awards

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SZA Among Nomination Leaders for 2023 MTV Video Music Awards

MTV has unveiled the highly-anticipated nominations for the 2023 “VMAs,” recognizing artists whose influence and contributions over the past year have reshaped the music industry and sparked global conversations. Taylor Swift leads with eight nominations, eyeing another “Video of the Year” win after her historic triple victory in the same category last year. SZA follows closely with six nominations, joined by Doja Cat, Kim Petras, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Olivia Rodrigo, and Sam Smith, each earning five nods. Additionally, BLACKPINK, Diddy, and Shakira receive four nominations each.

This year marks a record number of first-time nominees (35 in total), including Kim Petras with five nominations, Metro Boomin, Rema, and several others with three each, and a range of debut nominees such as Aespa, boygenius, Burna Boy, and more.

Fans can now cast their votes across 15 gender-neutral categories, including the new “Best Afrobeats” category, as well as the prestigious “Video of the Year” and “Artist of the Year” categories. Voting is open on vote.mtv.com until Sept.1st, while “Best New Artist” voting continues until the show on September 12th. Additional nominations for social categories like “Group of the Year” and “Song of Summer” will be disclosed later.

The 2023 “VMAs” will return on September 12th, showcasing music’s biggest stars with electrifying performances, surprises, and an enthusiastic live audience at New Jersey’s renowned Prudential Center.

The full run of nominations are available below.

VIDEO OF THE YEAR, Presented by Burger King®  

Doja Cat – “Attention” – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Columbia Records
Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl” – Republic Records 

Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records 

Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records

ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Beyoncé – Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia Records 

Doja Cat – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records
KAROL G – Interscope Records
Nicki Minaj – Republic Records
Shakira – Sony Music US Latin
Taylor Swift – Republic Records

SONG OF THE YEAR

Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Columbia Records
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down” – Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records
Steve Lacy – “Bad Habit” – L-M Records / RCA Records
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records Records
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records

BEST NEW ARTIST

GloRilla – CMG / Interscope Records

Ice Spice – 10K Projects / Capitol Records 

Kaliii – Atlantic Records

Peso Pluma – Double P Records

PinkPantheress – 300 Entertainment

Reneé Rapp – Interscope Records

PUSH PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR

August 2022: Saucy Santana – “Booty” – Arena Records / RCA Records
September 2022: Stephen Sanchez – “Until I Found You” – Mercury Records / Republic Records 
October 2022: JVKE – “golden hour” – AWAL
November 2022: Flo Milli – “Conceited” – ’94 Sounds / RCA Records
December 2022: Reneé Rapp – “Colorado” – Interscope Records
January 2023: Sam Ryder – “All The Way Over” – Elektra Entertainment
February 2023: Armani White – “GOATED” – Def Jam
March 2023: FLETCHER – “Becky’s So Hot” – Capitol Records
April 2023: TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Sugar Rush Ride” – BIGHIT MUSIC / Republic Records 

May 2023: Ice Spice – “Princess Diana” – Heavy On It / 10K Projects / Capitol Records
June 2023: FLO – “Losing You” – Uptown/Republic Records
July 2023: Lauren Spencer Smith – “That Part” – Island Records

BEST COLLABORATION

David Guetta & Bebe Rexha – “I’m Good (Blue)” – Warner Records
Post Malone, Doja Cat – “I Like You (A Happier Song)” – Mercury Records / Republic Records 

Diddy ft. Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, Yung Miami – “Gotta Move On” – Motown Records
KAROL G, Shakira – “TQG” – Universal Music Latino
Metro Boomin with The Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy – “Creepin’ (Remix)” – Boominati / Republic Records
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down” – Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records

BEST POP

Demi Lovato – “Swine” – Island Records

Dua Lipa – “Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album)” – Atlantic Records 

Ed Sheeran – “Eyes Closed” – Atlantic Records
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Columbia Records
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records
P!NK – “TRUSTFALL” – RCA Records
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records

BEST HIP-HOP

Diddy ft. Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, Yung Miami – “Gotta Move On” – Motown Records
DJ Khaled ft. Drake & Lil Baby – “STAYING ALIVE” – We The Best / Epic Records
GloRilla & Cardi B – “Tomorrow 2” – CMG / Interscope Records
Lil Uzi Vert – “Just Wanna Rock” – Atlantic Records / Generation Now
Lil Wayne ft. Swizz Beatz & DMX – “Kant Nobody” – Young Money Records
Metro Boomin ft Future – “Superhero (Heroes and Villains)” – Boominati / Republic Records 

Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl” – Republic Records

BEST R&B

Alicia Keys ft. Lucky Daye – “Stay” – RCA Records
Chlöe ft. Chris Brown – “How Does It Feel” – Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia
Metro Boomin with The Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy – “Creepin’ (Remix)” – Boominati / Republic Records
SZA – “Shirt” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
Toosii – “Favorite Song” – South Coast Music Group / Capitol Records
Yung Bleu & Nicki Minaj – “Love In The Way” – Empire Distribution

BEST ALTERNATIVE

blink-182 – “EDGING” – Columbia Records
boygenius – “the film” – Interscope Records

Fall Out Boy – “Hold Me Like A Grudge” – Fueled By Ramen                                                                          

Lana Del Rey ft. Jon Batiste – “Candy Necklace” – Interscope Records

Paramore – “This Is Why” – Atlantic Records
Thirty Seconds To Mars – “Stuck” – Concord Records / Concord

BEST ROCK

Foo Fighters – “The Teacher” – RCA Records
Linkin Park – “Lost (Original Version)” – Warner Records
Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Tippa My Tongue” – Warner Records 

Måneskin – “THE LONELIEST” – Arista Records
Metallica – “Lux Æterna” – Blackened Recordings
Muse – “You Make Me Feel Like It’s Halloween” – Warner Records

BEST LATIN

Anitta – “Funk Rave” – Republic Records
Bad Bunny – “WHERE SHE GOES” – Rimas Entertainment
Eslabon Armado, Peso Pluma – “Ella Baila Sola” – DEL Records, Inc. / Prajin Parlay, Inc. Grupo Frontera Bad Bunny – “un x100to” – Rimas Entertainment
KAROL G, Shakira – “TQG” – Universal Music Latino
ROSALÍA – “DESPECHÁ” – Columbia Records
Shakira – “Acróstico” – Sony Music US Latin

BEST K-POP

aespa – “Girls” – SM ENTERTAINMENT Co., Ltd.
BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – YG Entertainment / Interscope Records
FIFTY FIFTY – “Cupid” – ATTRAKT / Warner Records
SEVENTEEN – “Super” – HYBE / Geffen Records
Stray Kids – “S-Class” – JYP / Republic
TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Sugar Rush Ride” – BIGHIT MUSIC / Republic Records

BEST AFROBEATS

Ayra Starr – “Rush” – Mavin Global Holdings
Burna Boy – “It’s Plenty” – Atlantic Records / Spaceship Entertainment Ltd
Davido ft. Musa Keys – “UNAVAILABLE” – Sony Music U.K. / RCA Records
Fireboy DML & Asake – ”Bandana” – Empire Distribution
Libianca – “People” – Sony Music U.K. / RCA Records
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down” – Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records
Wizkid ft Ayra Starr– “2 Sugar” – Starboy / RCA Records

VIDEO FOR GOOD

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Orchestral) – NETFLIX
Bad Bunny – “El Apagón – Aquí Vive Gente” – Rimas Entertainment 

Demi Lovato – “Swine” – Island Records
Dove Cameron – “Breakfast” – Columbia Records
Imagine Dragons – “Crushed” – KIDinaKORNER / Interscope Records 

Maluma – “La Reina” – Sony Music US Latin

BEST DIRECTION

Doja Cat – “Attention” – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records – Directed by Tanu Muiño

Drake – “Falling Back” – OVO/Republic Records – Director X (Julien Christian Lutz)
Kendrick Lamar – “Count Me Out” – pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Directed by Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – 300 Entertainment – Directed by Colin Tilley
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records – Directed by Floria Sigismondi
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records – Directed by Christian Breslauer
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records – Directed by Taylor Swift

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

Adele – “I Drink Wine” – Columbia Records – Cinematography by Adam Newport-Berra
Ed Sheeran – “Eyes Closed” – Atlantic Records – Cinematography by Natasha Baier
Janelle Monae – “Lipstick Lover” – Atlantic Records – Cinematography by Allison Anderson
Kendrick Lamar – “Count Me Out” – pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records 0 Cinematography by Adam Newport-Berra
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Columbia Records – Cinematography by Marcell Rev
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records – Cinematography by Russ Fraser
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records – Cinematography by Rina Yang

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

Fall Out Boy – “Love From The Other Side” – Fueled By Ramen – Visual Effects by Thomas Bailey and Josh Shaffner

Harry Styles – “Music For A Sushi Restaurant” – Columbia Records – Visual Effects by Chelsea Delfino and Black Kite Studios

Melanie Martinez – “VOID” – Atlantic Records – Visual Effects by Carbon
Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl” – Republic Records – Visual Effects by Max Colt and Sergio Mashevskyi
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records – Visual Effects by Max Colt / FRENDER
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records – Visual Effects by Parliament

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – YG Entertainment / Interscope Records – Choreography by Kiel Tutin, Sienna Lalau, Lee Jung (YGX), Taryn Cheng (YGX)
Dua Lipa – “Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album)” – Atlantic Records – Choreography by Charm LaDonna 

Jonas Brothers – “Waffle House” – Republic Records – Choreography by Jerry Reece
Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – 300 Entertainment – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Panic! At The Disco – “Middle Of A Breakup” – Fueled By Ramen – Choreography by Monika Felice Smith
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records – Choreography by (LA)HORDE – Marine Brutti, Jonathan Debrouwer, Arthur Harel

BEST ART DIRECTION

boygenius – “the film” – Interscope Records – Art Direction by Jen Dunlap
BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – YG Entertainment / Interscope Records – Art Direction by Seo Hyun Seung (GIGANT)

Doja Cat – “Attention” – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records – Art Direction by Spencer Graves
Lana Del Rey ft. Jon Batiste – “Candy Necklace” – Interscope Records – Art Direction by Brandon Mendez

Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – 300 Entertainment – Art Direction by Niko Philipides
SZA – “Shirt” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records – Art Direction by Kate Bunch

BEST EDITING 

BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – YG Entertainment / Interscope Records – Editing by Seo Hyun Seung (GIGANT)
Kendrick Lamar – “Rich Spirit” – pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Edited by Grason Caldwell
Miley Cyrus – “River” – Columbia Records – Edited by Brandan Walter
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records – Edited by Sofia Kerpan and David Checel
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records – Edited by Luis Caraza Peimbert
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records – Edited by Chancler Haynes

The post SZA Among Nomination Leaders for 2023 MTV Video Music Awards first appeared on The Source.

The post SZA Among Nomination Leaders for 2023 MTV Video Music Awards appeared first on The Source.

Usher’s Best Award Show Performances

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Usher, born Usher Raymond IV, is a multitalented singer, songwriter, and dancer. He has captivated audiences worldwide for over two decades. Usher has been active in the music industry since the early 1990s and has established himself as one of his generation’s most successful performers. He’s relatively known for his smooth vocals, stellar dance skills, and the born ability to take an audience by surprise. Over the years, Usher has also performed on some of the world’s biggest stages. He’s left his mark with unforgettable live performances that showcase his exceptional talent, charisma, and stage presence. Here are some of his best live performances to date.

“U Got It Bad” – 2002 MTV Video Music Awards

His 2002 “U Got It Bad” performance at the MTV Video Music Awards is one of his most iconic. The performance began with Usher emerging from a set of white doors and walking down a narrow hallway toward the stage. A group of dancers surrounded the singer. Then, the lights turned on, and Usher captivated the audience with his smooth voice and impressive dance moves.

Usher’s performance was a masterclass in showmanship, with the singer showcasing his incredible stage presence and effortless charisma. The highlight of the performance came towards the end when Usher climbed on top of a grand piano and belted out the chorus. He displayed his powerful vocals and electrifying stage presence. The performance was a testament to Usher’s unparalleled talent.

“OMG” at the 2010 American Music Awards

His performance of “OMG” at the 2010 American Music Awards was a high-energy spectacle that left audiences breathless. Usher rose from the stage on a moving platform, surrounded by a group of dancers dressed in futuristic outfits. As the song’s infectious beat kicked in, he unleashed his signature dance moves, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The performance was a spectacle of lights, smoke, and choreography. It culminated in a jaw-dropping dance break that left the audience on their feet. Also, the performance was a testament to his incredible showmanship and ability to thrill audiences. It further cemented Usher’s status as one of the music industry’s most talented and exciting performers.

“Climax” – 2012 BET Awards

The performance of “Climax” at the 2012 BET Awards was a stripped-down affair. The display showcased the singer’s raw talent and incredible voice. It was also a departure from Usher’s usual high-energy, choreographed performances. Instead, he was accompanied only by a guitarist and a drummer on stage. The simplicity further allowed Usher’s voice to take center stage, and he delivered a hauntingly beautiful rendition that left the audience spellbound. Usher’s performance was a testament to his versatility as an artist, proving his voice’s power amid minimal accompaniment.

“Caught Up” – 2005 MTV Video Music Awards

Usher’s “Caught Up” performance at the 2005 MTV Video Music Awards was a tour de force. It began with Usher descending from the ceiling on a platform, surrounded by dancers. As the song’s infectious beat kicked in, Usher also unleashed his signature moves, showcasing his agility, rhythm, and showmanship. The performance was a high-energy spectacle, culminating in a jaw-dropping dance break that left the audience breathless. It was also a testament to his passion for performing, showcasing his unmatched talent as a dancer.

“Love In This Club” – 2008 MTV Video Music Awards

His “Love In This Club” performance at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards began with Usher rising from a bed on stage. Usher was even dressed silk pajamas to help set the mood. He launched into the song, showcasing his smooth vocals and sensual dance moves. The performance also was a feast for the senses, with the singer surrounded by dancers who added to the carnality of the performance. The highlight came towards the end when Usher was joined on stage by a surprise guest, Jeezy. The two artists performed a high-energy rendition of the song, with the crowd going wild.

“DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” – 2010 MTV Video Music Awards

Usher’s performance of “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards was a high-energy spectacle. As the song’s infectious beat kicked in, Usher unleashed his signature dance moves, sending the crowd into a frenzy. It also had a dance break that got the audience on their feet. Usher’s performance was a testament to his incredible energy and passion for performing, showcasing his unmatched talent as a dancer. The performance was a highlight of the night and further cemented Usher’s status as one of the most talented performers in the industry.

“Confessions Part II” – 2005 Grammy Awards

Usher’s performance of “Confessions Part II” at the 2005 Grammy Awards was powerful and emotional. It also helped showcase Usher’s incredible vocal range and ability to connect with his audience on a deeper level. The show began with Usher sitting on a stool, surrounded by musicians. The highlight of the performance came towards the end of the show. R&B icon James Ingram joined Usher, adding an extra layer of power to the performance.