By Taylor Swift continued her reign at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, held Wednesday night at the UBS Arena on New York’s Long Island, taking home seven awards including the coveted Video of the Year trophy.
Swift’s victories bring her career total to 30 VMAs, tying her with Beyoncé for the most awards in the show’s history. Eminem now holds the record for most VMAs by a male artist with 14.
In her acceptance speech for Video of the Year, Swift thanked her “boyfriend, Travis” for his support during the filming of her “Fortnight” music video, a reference to NFL star Travis Kelce that elicited cheers from the audience. She praised Kelce, saying, “Everything this man touches turns to happiness and fun and magic.”
Swift also used her platform to encourage voter registration for those over 18, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming 2024 presidential election. However, she notably avoided mentioning her recent endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential bid, which she had announced on Tuesday night following Harris’ debate with former president Donald Trump.
The pop star’s first award of the night was for Best Collaboration, shared with Post Malone for “Fortnight.” In that acceptance speech, Swift paid tribute to the victims and families affected by the September 11 attacks, marking the 23rd anniversary of the tragedy.
Other highlights of the night included:
Katy Perry receiving the prestigious Video Vanguard Award. She performed an eight-song medley spanning her career, including hits like “Roar,” “California Gurls,” and “Firework.” Perry also teased a new song, “I’m His, He’s Mine,” featuring Doechii.
Chappell Roan winning Best New Artist, dedicating her award to drag artists and the LGBTQ+ community in music.
Sabrina Carpenter winning Song of the Year for “Espresso” and performing a medley of her hits.
Eminem opening the show with a medley of “Houdini” and “Somebody Save Me,” featuring Jelly Roll.
Megan Thee Stallion hosting the awards for the first time, injecting humor throughout the night.
Performances by a diverse array of artists including Karol G, Rauw Alejandro, Halsey, GloRilla, Blackpink’s LISA, Shawn Mendes, Anitta, Camila Cabello, Benson Boone, and Lenny Kravitz.
The 40th anniversary of the VMAs was marked by nostalgic flashbacks to iconic moments from past shows, including Britney Spears’ performance with an albino python and Madonna’s “Like A Virgin” performance.
Swift’s appearance in a green tartan corset with a matching train and long black leather gloves added to the night’s fashion highlights.
This year’s VMAs underscored Swift’s continued dominance in the music industry, while also showcasing a broad spectrum of contemporary musical talent and paying homage to the awards’ rich history.
