New York (AFP)
The 40th annual MTV Video Music Awards (VMA) took place on Sunday under the sign of diversity, with a comeback at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, which saw the coronations of Lil Nas X and Olivia Rodrigo.
The 2021 MTV VMAs - a show better known for its ostentatious performances, its "made-for-Twitter" moments and its wacky costumes than for its actual awards - were back with sophisticated acts, in front of a masked audience, after a 2020 edition which has seen many celebrities accept video awards.
The show opened with a pre-recorded clip of Madonna, who made VMA history at the 1984 inaugural ceremony by performing "Like A Virgin", launching the show's reputation as a headline-grabbing platform. .
American rapper Busta Rhymes (d) on stage at the MTV Video Music Awards in New York, September 12, 2021 ANGELA WEISS AFP
“They said we weren't going to last, but we're still here,” the performer said after strutting around the stage, blurting out a curse as she wore a dominatrix black leather thong corset.
- "Happy 40th birthday, MTV" -
Lil Nas X won the most important award of the evening, that of the video of the year, for "Montero (Call Me by Your Name)", after a sensual performance, a few days before the release of his album, scheduled for September 17.
"Thanks to the gay agenda!"
said the 22-year-old, who packed the networks by arguing online with a US governor who rose up against the lascivious clip in which the artist does a lap dance to hell.
Rapper Lil Nas X wins Video of the Year award at MTV Video Music Awards in New York, September 12, 2021 ANGELA WEISS AFP
Doja Cat hosted the Sunday show, also performing “Been Like This” and “You Right,” descending from the ceiling in an aerial act.
But it was Normani's interpretation of "Wild Side" that stole the show.
The R&B pop star stunned with her ever-tight choreography before rubbing shoulders with Teyana Taylor, strapped to a metal platform reminiscent of Janet Jackson's past performances.
Lil Nas X launched the live version of his single "Industry Baby" with co-performer Jack Harlow and a marching band.
Billie Eilish introduced the Foo Fighters performance, thanking the Global Icon Award winners for "carrying the torch of rock and roll".
Sensation Olivia Rodrigo won three awards, including Song of the Year for "Drivers License" and Best New Artist.
Singer Olivia Rodrigo won the Best New Artist trophy at the MTV Video Music Awards in New York on September 12, 2021 ANGELA WEISS AFP
"I'm so grateful to be able to make music, to do what I love and to call it my job," said the 18-year-old whose debut album, "Sour", peaked. charts.
Justin Bieber won Artist of the Year and Best Pop Music for "Peaches".
Eilish's song "Your Power" won Best Video Award.
© 2021 AFP