Taylor Swift leads the pack with 10 nominations at the 2024 MTV VMAs

In a year where she has dominated both the music charts and live performances, Taylor Swift has emerged as the frontrunner for the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, securing an impressive 10 nominations. This year’s VMAs promise to be a star-studded event, with many of the industry’s biggest names vying for the coveted awards.

Post Malone and other top contenders

Post Malone follows closely behind Swift with nine nominations, largely due to his collaboration on Swift’s hit song “Fortnight.” This partnership has clearly paid off, earning both artists significant recognition.

Tied for third place with six nominations each are Sabrina Carpenter, Eminem, and Ariana Grande. Other notable artists with multiple nominations include SZA and Meghan Thee Stallion, each with five nods. Olivia Rodrigo, Teddy Swims, and Blackpink’s Lisa also stand out with four nominations each.

The big night: What to expect

The awards show will be broadcast live from UBS Arena on September 10 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Fans are eagerly anticipating whether Swift will attend the event, especially since she will be on a break from her Eras Tour starting in late August. There’s speculation that she might use the VMAs platform to announce the release date for “Reputation (Taylor’s Version),” much like she did with her “Midnights” album at the 2022 ceremony.

New and returning faces

Among the artists with three nominations are Benson Boone, Anitta, Dua Lipa, Tyla, Bleachers, and GloRilla. Meanwhile, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Charli XCX each have two nominations, sharing this spot with other notable names like Drake, Jelly Roll, Bad Bunny, Coldplay, Latto, Jung Kook, Usher, Victoria Monet, Tate McRae, Sexyy Red, Rauw Alejandro, and Jessie Murph.

Interestingly, Beyoncé, despite releasing one of the most talked-about albums of the year, has only one nomination for “Texas Hold ‘Em” as Song of the Year. This could be due to the fact that her releases were billed as “visualizers” rather than fully produced music videos, which the VMAs typically honor.

Video of the year nominees

The competition for Video of the Year is fierce, with the following nominees:

Ariana Grande – “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love)”
Billie Eilish – “Lunch”
Doja Cat – “Paint the Town Red”
Eminem – “Houdini”
SZA – “Snooze”
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”

Artist of the year

The Artist of the Year category features a diverse group of nominees:

Ariana Grande
Bad Bunny
Eminem
Sabrina Carpenter
SZA
Taylor Swift

Song of the year

The Song of the Year nominees include:

Beyoncé – “Texas Hold ‘Em”
Jack Harlow – “Lovin On Me”
Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”
Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso”
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”
Teddy Swims – “Lose Control”

Best new artist

The Best New Artist category is always a highlight, showcasing emerging talent:

Benson Boone
Chappell Roan
Gracie Abrams
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Tyla

MTV push performance of the year

This category honors standout performances from MTV’s freshman artist initiative:

August 2023: Kaliii – “Area Codes”
September 2023: GloRilla – “Lick or Sum”
October 2023: Benson Boone – “In the Stars”
November 2023: Coco Jones – “ICU”
December 2023: Victoria Monét – “On My Mama”
January 2024: Jessie Murph – “Wild Ones”
February 2024: Teddy Swims – “Lose Control”
March 2024: Chappell Roan – “Red Wine Supernova”
April 2024: Flyana Boss – “Yeaaa”
May 2024: Laufey – “Goddess”
June 2024: Le Sserafim – “Easy”
July 2024: The Warning – “Automatic Sun”

Behind the scenes

The telecast’s executive producers are industry veterans, ensuring a high-quality production. The team includes Bruce Gillmer and Jesse Ignjatovic, with Barb Bialkowski as co-executive producer. Alicia Portugal and Jackie Barba are the executives in charge of production, Wendy Plaut oversees celebrity talent, and Lisa Lauricella is the music talent executive.

The 2024 MTV VMAs are shaping up to be an unforgettable night, celebrating the best in music and video artistry. Whether you’re a fan of pop, hip-hop, or alternative music, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.# Celebrating the best in music: A deep dive into the latest nominations

Music enthusiasts, get ready to dive into the latest and greatest in the world of music. This year’s nominations are a testament to the diverse and dynamic nature of the industry. From hip-hop to K-pop, and everything in between, let’s explore the standout tracks and artists that have captured our hearts and ears.

Best collaboration: A fusion of talents

Collaborations often bring out the best in artists, blending unique styles and creating unforgettable tracks. This year, the nominees for Best Collaboration are no exception:

Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA – “Rich Baby Daddy” – OVO / Republic Records
GloRilla, Megan Thee Stallion – “Wanna Be” – CMG / Interscope Records
Jessie Murph ft. Jelly Roll – “Wild Ones” – Columbia Records
Jung Kook ft. Latto – “Seven” – Bighit Music / Geffen Records
Post Malone ft. Morgan Wallen – “I Had Some Help” – Mercury / Republic / Big Loud
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records

Each of these collaborations showcases the power of musical synergy, bringing together distinct voices and styles to create something truly special.

Best pop: The queens of pop reign supreme

The Best Pop category is always fiercely competitive, and this year is no different. The nominees are:

Camila Cabello – Geffen / Interscope Records
Dua Lipa – Warner Records
Olivia Rodrigo – Geffen Records
Sabrina Carpenter – Island
Tate McRae – RCA Records
Taylor Swift – Republic Records

These artists have dominated the charts with their catchy tunes and powerful performances, proving once again why they are the reigning queens of pop.

Best hip-hop: Rhymes and rhythms that resonate

Hip-hop continues to evolve, and this year’s Best Hip-Hop nominees reflect the genre’s dynamic nature:

Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA – “Rich Baby Daddy” – OVO / Republic Records
Eminem – “Houdini” – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records
GloRilla – “Yeah Glo!” – CMG / Interscope Records
Gunna – “Fukumean” – Young Stoner Life Records / 300 Entertainment
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Hot Girl Productions
Travis Scott ft. Playboi Carti – “FE!N” – Cactus Jack / Epic Records

These tracks are a testament to the genre’s ability to push boundaries and address contemporary issues through powerful lyrics and beats.

Best R&B: Soulful sounds that soothe

The Best R&B category features artists who have delivered soulful and emotive performances:

Alicia Keys – “Lifeline” – AK Records / Gamma
Muni Long – “Made For Me” – Def Jam
SZA – “Snooze” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
Tyla – “Water” – Fax Records / Epic Records
Usher, Summer Walker, 21 Savage – “Good Good” – Mega / Gamma
Victoria Monét – “On My Mama” – Lovett Music / RCA Records

These artists have captivated audiences with their smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, making them standouts in the R&B genre.

Best alternative: Pushing the boundaries of sound

Alternative music continues to push the boundaries of what music can be. The nominees for Best Alternative are:

Benson Boone – “Beautiful Things” – Night Street Records, Inc. / Warner Records
Bleachers – “Tiny Moves” – Dirty Hit
Hozier – “Too Sweet” – Columbia Records
Imagine Dragons – “Eyes Closed” – KIDinaKorner / Interscope Records
Linkin Park – “Friendly Fire” – This Compilation / Warner Records
Teddy Swims – “Lose Control (Live)” – Warner Records

These tracks showcase the innovative and experimental nature of alternative music, offering listeners a fresh and unique auditory experience.

Best rock: Timeless tunes that rock

Rock music remains a powerful force, and this year’s Best Rock nominees are a testament to the genre’s enduring appeal:

Bon Jovi – “Legendary” – Island
Coldplay – “Feelslikeimfallinginlove” – Atlantic Records
Green Day – “Dilemma” – Reprise Records / Warner Records
Kings of Leon – “Mustang” – Capitol Records
Lenny Kravitz – “Human” – Roxie Records Inc. / BMG Rights Management
U2 – “Atomic City” – Interscope Records

These bands have delivered powerful performances and timeless tunes that continue to resonate with fans around the world.

Best Latin: Rhythms that move the soul

Latin music is known for its infectious rhythms and passionate performances. The nominees for Best Latin are:

Anitta – “Mil Veces” – Floresta Records / Republic Records / Universal Music Latin Entertainment
Bad Bunny – “Monaco” – Rimas Entertainment
Karol G – “Mi Ex Tenia Razon” – Bichota / Interscope Records
Myke Towers – “Lala” – Warner Music Latina
Peso Pluma & Anitta – “Bellakeo” – Double P Records
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching the Sky” – Sony Music Latin / Duars Entertainment
Shakira & Cardi B – “Puntería” – Sony Music US Latin

These artists have brought the vibrant and energetic sounds of Latin music to a global audience, making them true ambassadors of the genre.

Best afrobeats: A celebration of African rhythms

Afrobeats has taken the world by storm, and this year’s Best Afrobeats nominees are leading the charge:

Ayra Starr ft. Giveon – “Last Heartbreak Song” – Mavin / Republic
Burna Boy – “City Boys” – Spaceship / Bad Habit / Atlantic Records
Chris Brown ft. Davido & Lojay – “Sensational” – Chris Brown Entertainment / RCA Records
Tems – “Love Me JeJe” – Since ’93 / RCA Records
Tyla – “Water” – Fax Records / Epic Records
Usher, Pheelz – “Ruin” – Mega / Gamma

These tracks highlight the infectious rhythms and vibrant energy of Afrobeats, making it one of the most exciting genres in music today.

Best K-pop: The global phenomenon

K-pop continues to captivate audiences worldwide, and this year’s Best K-pop nominees are at the forefront of the phenomenon:

Jung Kook ft. Latto – “Seven” – Bighit Music / Geffen Records
Lisa – “Rockstar” – Lloud Co. / RCA Records
NCT Dream – “Smoothie” – SM Entertainment / Virgin Music Group
NewJeans – “Super Shy” – ADOR / Geffen Records
Stray Kids – “Lalalala” – JYP Entertainment / Imperial / Republic Records
Tomorrow X Together – “Deja vu” – Bighit Music / Imperial / Republic Records

These artists have taken the world by storm with their catchy tunes, impressive choreography, and dedicated fanbases.

Video for good: Music with a message

Music has the power to inspire change, and the Video for Good category celebrates tracks that carry a powerful message:

Alexander Stewart – “If Only You Knew” – FAE Grp
Billie Eilish – “What Was I Made For (From the Motion Picture ‘Barbie’)” – Darkroom / Interscope Records
Coldplay – “Feelslikeimfallinginlove” – Atlantic Records
Joyner Lucas & Jelly Roll – “Best for Me” – Twenty Nine Music Group
RAYE – “Genesis” – Human Re Sources
Tyler Childers – “In Your Love” – Hickman Holler Records / RCA Records

These videos not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire action, making them truly impactful.

Best direction: Crafting visual masterpieces

The Best Direction category honors the visionaries behind some of the most stunning music videos:

Ariana Grande – “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love)” – Republic Records – Directed by Christian Breslauer
Bleachers – “Tiny Moves” – Dirty Hit – Directed by Alex Lockett & Margaret Qualley
Eminem – “Houdini” – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Directed by Rich Lee
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Hot Girl Productions – Directed by Daniel Iglesias Jr.
Sabrina Carpenter – “Please Please Please” – Island – Directed by Bardia Zeinali
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records – Directed by Taylor Swift

These directors have brought their unique visions to life, creating visual masterpieces that complement the music perfectly.

Best cinematography: Capturing the essence of music

Cinematography plays a crucial role in music videos, and the Best Cinematography nominees have excelled in this art:

Ariana Grande – “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love)” – Republic Records – Cinematography by Anatol Trofimov
Charli XCX – “Von Dutch” – Atlantic Records – Cinematography by Jeff Bierman
Dua Lipa – “Illusion” – Warner Records – Cinematography by Nikita Kuzmenko
Olivia Rodrigo – “Obsessed” – Geffen Records – Cinematography by Marz Miller
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching the Sky” – Sony Music Latin / Duars Entertainment – Cinematography by Camilo Monsalve
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records – Cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto

These cinematographers have captured the essence of the music, creating visually stunning videos that enhance the listening experience.

Best editing: Seamless storytelling

Editing is key to creating a seamless and engaging music video. The Best Editing nominees have demonstrated exceptional skill in this area:

Anitta – “Mil Veces” – Floresta Records / Republic Records / Universal Music Latin Entertainment – Editing by Nick Yumul
Ariana Grande – “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love)” – Republic Records – Editing by Luis Caraza Peimbert
Eminem – “Houdini” – Shady / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Editing by David Checel
Lisa – “Rockstar” – Lloud Co. / RCA Records – Editing by Nik Kohler
Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso” – Island – Editing by Jai Shukla
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Republic Records – Editing by Chancler Haynes

These editors have crafted videos that flow seamlessly, enhancing the storytelling and overall impact of the music.

Best choreography: Dance moves that dazzle

Choreography is an integral part of many music videos, and the Best Choreography nominees have delivered dazzling performances:

Bleachers – “Tiny Moves” – Dirty Hit – Choreography by Margaret Qualley
Dua Lipa – “Houdini” – Warner Records – Choreography by Charm La’Donna
Lisa – “Rockstar” – Lloud Co. / RCA Records – Choreography by Charm La’Donna

These choreographers have created captivating dance routines that elevate the music and leave a lasting impression.

In the world of music, these nominees represent the pinnacle of creativity and talent. Whether you’re a fan of pop, hip-hop, R&B, or any other genre, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy and celebrate.# Celebrating the best in music videos: A deep dive into choreography, visual effects, and art direction

Music videos have evolved into a powerful medium that combines music, visual storytelling, and artistic expression. This year, several artists have pushed the boundaries of creativity, delivering stunning visuals and captivating performances. Let’s explore the nominees for the best choreography, visual effects, and art direction in music videos, highlighting the innovative work that has set new standards in the industry.

Choreography that moves the soul

Choreography in music videos is more than just dance; it’s a form of storytelling that adds depth and emotion to the music. This year, several artists have collaborated with talented choreographers to create unforgettable performances.

Rauw Alejandro – “Touching the Sky”

Rauw Alejandro’s “Touching the Sky” features choreography by Felix ‘Fefe’ Burgos. The dance sequences are a perfect blend of fluid movements and sharp, precise steps, reflecting the song’s dynamic energy. Touching the Sky is a testament to the power of dance in conveying emotion and enhancing the musical experience.

Tate McRae – “Greedy”

Tate McRae’s “Greedy” showcases the choreography of Sean Bankhead. The video is a masterclass in contemporary dance, with McRae’s expressive movements perfectly capturing the song’s themes of desire and ambition. Greedy is a visual feast that highlights the synergy between music and dance.

Troye Sivan – “Rush”

Troye Sivan’s “Rush” features choreography by Sergio Reis and Mauro Van De Kerkhof. The video is a celebration of freedom and self-expression, with Sivan’s dance moves exuding confidence and joy. Rush is a vibrant and uplifting visual experience that resonates with viewers.

Visual effects that dazzle the eyes

Visual effects in music videos can transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary spectacles. This year, several artists have utilized cutting-edge technology to create visually stunning videos that captivate audiences.

Ariana Grande – “The Boy is Mine”

Ariana Grande’s “The Boy is Mine” features visual effects by Digital Axis. The video is a mesmerizing blend of reality and fantasy, with seamless transitions and breathtaking visuals. The Boy is Mine is a testament to the power of visual effects in enhancing the storytelling of a music video.

Eminem – “Houdini”

Eminem’s “Houdini” showcases the visual effects work of Synapse Virtual Production, Louise Lee, Rich Lee, Metaphysic, and Flawless Post. The video is a visual tour de force, with mind-bending effects that complement Eminem’s rapid-fire lyrics. Houdini is a thrilling visual experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”

Taylor Swift and Post Malone’s “Fortnight” features visual effects by Parliament. The video is a stunning blend of surreal imagery and intricate effects, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly matches the song’s ethereal quality. Fortnight is a visual masterpiece that showcases the potential of visual effects in music videos.

Art direction that sets the scene

Art direction in music videos involves creating the visual aesthetic and atmosphere that bring the song to life. This year, several artists have worked with talented art directors to create visually striking videos that leave a lasting impression.

Charli XCX – “360”

Charli XCX’s “360” features art direction by Grace Surnow. The video is a bold and colorful visual experience, with striking set designs and imaginative concepts. 360 is a testament to the power of art direction in creating a unique and memorable visual identity.

Olivia Rodrigo – “Bad Idea Right?”

Olivia Rodrigo’s “Bad Idea Right?” showcases the art direction of Nicholas des Jardins. The video is a visually rich experience, with carefully crafted sets and a cohesive aesthetic that enhances the song’s narrative. Bad Idea Right? is a perfect example of how art direction can elevate a music video.

Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”

Taylor Swift and Post Malone’s “Fortnight” also features art direction by Ethan Tobman. The video is a visual feast, with intricate set designs and a cohesive visual style that complements the song’s themes. Fortnight is a stunning example of the impact of art direction in music videos.

Reflecting on the artistry of music videos

Music videos are a unique art form that combines music, dance, visual effects, and art direction to create a powerful and immersive experience. This year’s nominees for best choreography, visual effects, and art direction have set new standards in the industry, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of the artists and their collaborators. As we celebrate these achievements, we look forward to seeing how music videos will continue to evolve and inspire in the years to come.