2023 MTV VMAs: Winners Announced

The MTV Video Music Awards recently celebrated global artists. The 2023 edition was notable for its all-female ‘Best Artist’ nominees and the debut of the ‘Best Afrobeats’ category.

Nigerian artist Rema clinched the award with “Calm Down,” featuring Selena Gomez.

The ceremony occurred at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, USA.

Winners:

• Video of the Year: Taylor Swift for “Anti-Hero.”
• Artist of the Year: Taylor Swift.
• Song of the Year: Taylor Swift for “Anti-Hero.”
• Best New Artist: Ice Spice.
• Push Performance of the Year: TOMORROW X TOGETHER for “Sugar Rush Ride.”
• Best Collaboration: KAROL G and Shakira for “TQG.”
• Best Pop: Taylor Swift for “Anti-Hero.”
• Best Hip-Hop: Nicki Minaj for “Super Freaky Girl.”
• Best R&B: SZA for “Shirt.”
• Best Alternative: Lana Del Rey featuring Jon Batiste for “Candy Necklace.”
• Best Rock: Måneskin for “THE LONELIEST.”
• Best Latin: Anitta for “Funk Rave.”
• Best K-Pop: Stray Kids for “S-Class.”
• Best Afrobeats: Rema & Selena Gomez for “Calm Down.”
• Video for Good: Dove Cameron for “Breakfast.”
• Best Direction: Taylor Swift for “Anti-Hero.”
• Best Cinematography: Taylor Swift for “Anti-Hero.”
• Best Visual Effects: Taylor Swift for “Anti-Hero.”
• Best Choreography: BLACKPINK for “Pink Venom.”
• Best Art Direction: Doja Cat for “Attention.”
• Best Editing: Olivia Rodrigo for “Vampire.”

Editorial:

The 2023 MTV VMAs have once again showcased the best in music, with artists worldwide recognized for their outstanding contributions.

Taylor Swift emerged as a dominant force, bagging multiple awards, including Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Song of the Year.

Her consistent ability to produce chart-topping hits and her influence in the music industry is undeniable.

The introduction of the ‘Best Afrobeats’ category is a significant nod to the global influence of African music.

Rema’s win in this category with “Calm Down” is a testament to the growing international appeal of Afrobeats.

The genre originated in West Africa and has seen a surge in global popularity in recent years, with artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido gaining international acclaim.

Another highlight was the all-female nominee list for the ‘Best Artist’ category, showcasing the power and influence of female artists in the music industry. This move can be seen as a step towards greater inclusivity and recognition of female talent.

The VMAs have always been a platform for artists to showcase their creativity, not just through their music but also through their videos.

The Best Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Visual Effects awards highlight the importance of visual storytelling in music.

These categories recognize the collaborative efforts of directors, cinematographers, and visual effects teams in bringing an artist’s vision to life.

The 2023 MTV VMAs celebrated diversity, creativity, and music’s global influence.

As the world of music continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the VMAs adapt and continue to recognize the best in the industry.

Did You Know?

• The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) were first held in 1984.
• The iconic “Moon Person” trophy was initially called the “Moonman.”
• Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” won Best Overall Performance in a Video award in 1984.
• Madonna has won the most VMAs by a female artist, with 20 awards.
• The VMAs are known for their memorable performances, including Britney Spears’ snake dance in 2001.