MTV VMAS 2024'S MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS: TAYLOR SWIFT'S TRIBUTE MELTS HEARTS, EMINEM'S PERFORMANCE GIVES A NOSTALGIC DOSE AND BLACKPINK'S LISA SHINES ON THE STAGE
The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) delivered an unforgettable night, packed with standout performances, celebrity appearances, and heartfelt tributes. Blending iconic artists with rising stars, the event showcased the wide-ranging talent and growth of the music world. Taylor Swift was a key figure of the evening, taking home numerous awards while also honoring the victims of 9/11 with a touching tribute. Here's a look at some of the night's most memorable highlights.
Taylor Swift’s night of triumph and tributeTaylor Swift, always a red-carpet showstopper, arrived in a punk-inspired Dior outfit from the 2025 resort collection. Her plaid taffeta bustier paired with a flowy skirt turned heads as she confidently walked the VMAs red carpet. The night only got better for Swift as she claimed her second Moon Person trophy for her collaboration with Post Malone on their hit song, ‘Fortnight.’
The most memorable part of her night wasn’t just her victory. During her acceptance speech, Swift paused to honor the victims of the September 11th attacks, delivering a heartfelt tribute that moved the audience. Her ability to blend her personal success with broader, more poignant reflections demonstrated her growth and influence as both an artist and a public figure.
Eminem’s nostalgic performance and Taylor Swift’s dance movesEminem made a powerful return to the VMAs stage, kicking off the night with a throwback performance that harkened back to his early 2000s persona. Sporting his iconic bleached hair and dressed in black, he performed his latest single, ‘Houdini,’ from ‘The Death of Slim Shady’. His dynamic stage presence took the crowd on a journey through his musical evolution.
Taylor Swift was clearly in high spirits during Eminem’s performance, seen dancing to the beat and enjoying herself from her seat. Jelly Roll made a surprise virtual appearance to join Eminem for their collaboration on ‘Somebody Save Me,’ adding a unique twist to the performance.
BLACKPINK’s Lisa rocks the stageBLACKPINK’s Lisa delivered one of the night’s most electrifying performances. Debuting her new single ‘New Woman,’ the K-pop sensation captivated the audience with her powerful vocals and stage presence. Dressed in a bold red leather outfit, Lisa commanded attention as she transitioned seamlessly into her hit track ‘Rockstar,’ which was nominated for Best K-pop at the VMAs. Though her usual collaborator Rosalia was absent, Lisa’s solo performance was one of the night’s highlights. Introduced by Paris Hilton, the Thai-born star solidified her place as a leading figure in global pop music.
Sabrina Carpenter’s rising star momentSabrina Carpenter, another breakout star of the night, made waves both on and off the stage. Dazzling in a breathtaking outfit on the red carpet, Carpenter then gave an energetic performance mixing her hits ‘Please Please Please,’ ‘Taste,’ and ‘Espresso.’ The space-themed set perfectly complemented her bubblegum pop sound, and her act was one of the most visually engaging of the night.
Carpenter's career is reaching impressive new milestones. Her most recent album, ‘Short n' Sweet,’ made a powerful debut, landing at No. 1 on the Billboard 200—a major achievement in her musical path. Following her role as the opening act for Taylor Swift's ‘Eras Tour’ and an unforgettable performance at Coachella earlier this year, Carpenter has solidified her place as one of the most promising emerging talents in the pop music world.
From Taylor Swift’s touching 9/11 tribute to BLACKPINK’s Lisa rocking the stage and Eminem's nostalgic beats, the 2024 VMAs was a night filled with unforgettable moments. As the event continues to unfold, it’s clear that both iconic veterans and rising stars have made their mark, contributing to an award show that will be talked about for years to come.