The MTV Video Music Awards reaffirmed the world’s love for bold performances, bright fashion, and unforgettable stage moments. The ceremony blended international chart-toppers with remarkable Canadian talent while highlighting the daring style choices that define pop culture today. Hosted by Kevin Hart, the MTV VMAs were broadcast from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on September 6. Missed the show? Here are the important highlights:
- One Direction emerged as the night’s dominant act, sweeping three trophies including Best New Artist, Most Share-worthy Video, and Best Pop Video. The British quartet charmed viewers with gracious acceptance speeches and a high-energy live rendition of One Thing that kept fans singing along long after the closing notes.
- Alicia Keys commanded the stage with a powerful performance of Girl on Fire, complemented by a dazzling display of flips and gymnastic tricks performed by Gabby Douglas, the Olympic gold medalist. The combination of vocal strength and visual splash elevated the moment, adding an extra layer of thrill to the evening.
- Drake accepted Best Hip-Hop Video for HYFR, sharing that the track celebrated his Jewish roots and his Toronto upbringing. The moment underscored his authenticity and the personal resonance of his music with fans across North America.
- Members of the Twilight cast presented the final preview for Breaking Dawn Part 2, the saga’s concluding chapter. The clip teased the final battles and emotional-heavy scenes that fans had anticipated for years, with release now scheduled for later in the year.
- Rihanna took home Video of the Year for We Found Love, a dynamic collaboration with Calvin Harris that dominated airwaves and dance floors worldwide, sealing a landmark moment in her career at the VMAs.
- The ceremony introduced a double-decker red carpet, doubling the chances for fans to glimpse their favorite stars and creating more fan interactions and photo moments than ever before.
- Musician camaraderie filled the air as performers shared moments of lighthearted fun. While the night leaned a touch more restrained than past shows, a playful kiss between Katy Perry and Harry Styles drew immediate chatter among One Direction fans and broader pop-culture communities.
- Frank Ocean delivered a stark, intimate performance of Thinking About You, illustrating that raw vocal power and precise phrasing can make a lasting impact without heavy production.
- Taylor Swift closed the show with a spirited performance of her new single, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, and she briefly moved into the crowd to connect with the audience as the finale wrapped up.
Check out the full list of MTV VMA winners!