MTV has officially announced the nominees for the 2024 Video Music Awards (VMAs), This year’s event celebrates artists whose influence and contributions have transformed the music industry and sparked global conversations. The nominees span a wide range of genres, showcasing the diversity and creativity that define contemporary music. As one of the most anticipated events in the music industry calendar, the VMAs continue to be a platform that honors the best music videos and artists, and this year’s list highlights both established stars and rising talents.
African Stars Shine on the Global Stage
In a significant recognition of the global impact of Afrobeats, African artists such as Burna Boy, Tems, Tyla, Davido, Ayra Starr, Lojay, and Pheelz have earned nominations in the “Best Afrobeats” category. This marks a momentous occasion for African music, as these artists have not only dominated the charts but also contributed to the genre’s growing influence worldwide. Tyla in particular, stands out with three nominations, including “Best Afrobeats,” “Best New Artist,” and “Best R&B.” Their recognition at the VMAs spotlights the increasing visibility and importance of African music on the global stage.
A Rich History of the MTV Video Music Awards
The MTV Video Music Awards have long been a staple in the music industry, celebrating the best in music video creativity and innovation. Established in 1984, the VMAs have evolved into a prestigious event that recognizes the achievements of artists across a range of categories. This year, the awards will be held at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on September 11, 2024. Originally scheduled for September 10, the date was shifted to avoid clashing with the presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The awards will honor the best music videos, artists, and songs released between June 22, 2023, and June 20, 2024, continuing a tradition that has shaped pop culture for decades.
Taylor Swift Dominates the 2024 Nominations
At the forefront of this year’s nominations is Taylor Swift, who leads the pack with an impressive 10 nods in major categories such as Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop. Her nomination for Video of the Year positions her to potentially make VMAs history as the first artist to win in that category three years in a row and five times overall. Close behind Swift is her collaborator Post Malone, with nine nominations, followed by Ariana Grande, Eminem, and Sabrina Carpenter, each with six. Megan Thee Stallion and SZA received five nominations each, while LISA, Olivia Rodrigo, and Teddy Swims rounded out the top nominees with four nods each.
First-Time Nominees and African Music’s Global Impact
This year’s VMAs feature 29 first-time nominees, including African stars like Burna Boy, Tyla, Lojay, and Pheelz. Their inclusion indicates the growing influence of African music on the global stage. Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and co-General Manager of Paramount Africa & Lead BET International, expressed his pride in the African nominees, emphasizing their role in reshaping the global music landscape. Twala noted, “These artists are not merely representing their countries; they are boldly reshaping the global music landscape. Their nominations emphasize the undeniable impact and universal appeal of African music, further cementing its place on the world stage.”
Fans eager to catch all the action can tune in to MTV or stream the show on platforms like YouTube TV on September 11, 2024. The event promises to be a thrilling celebration of music, creativity, and innovation, with performances, presentations, and surprises that make the VMAs a must-watch event.
Click here for the complete list of 2024 VMAs nominees.
