The 2023 VMAs went out with a bang last night (September 12th) as it concluded this year’s string of events celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. The star-studded lineup included the likes of Grandmaster Flash, Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj, all of whom performed their most well-known hits.
Representing the early-80s era of hip-hop, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five performed their iconic single ‘The Message.’ The group then welcomed Doug E Fresh onto the stage to deliver his renowned hit, ‘The Show.’
As the celebration proceeded to show hip-hop’s evolution, Young Money counterparts Nicki Minaj and Lil Wayne burst onstage to showcase the hip-hop of the late-00s and 2010s. Minaj performed a medley of ‘Itty Bitty Piggy’ and ‘Red Ruby Da Sleaze’ while Wayne ran through some of his hits, including Tha Carter V single ‘Uproar’ and new single ‘Kat Food.’
Later, the epic tribute performance saw collaborators Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion emerge to perform their new collaboration ‘Bongos’ live for the first time. A single recently labelled “ratchet” by Joe Budden.
The VMAs has been the last major award show to celebrate the birthday of hip-hop, which came to an end in August after a year-long series of events, including a private party at Kamala Harris’ presential residence.
Following the tribute performance, the VMAs also saw Shakira receive her Video Vanguard award, becoming the first South American artist in history to receive it. Concerning hip-hop, Bronx drill emcee Ice Spice received an award as this year’s best new artist.
Although there were a lot of performances on the night, the medleys, flashing lights and epic performances in tribute to hip-hop were undoubtedly the highlight of the night.