Surprise Albums, Great Performances and More: VMAS 2022

From Addison Rae’s mom to Taylor Swift’s album announcement to Nicki Minaj and BLACKPINK’s performances, the VMA’s were a treat. 

The show was centered around Nicki Minaj and her Vanguard Award win. The rapper performed a hits medley, featuring the debut performance of her new #1 single, “Super Freaky Girl.” Minaj tapped back into some of her iconic old verses, such as her game-changing “Monster” verse. With an enthusiastic crowd yelling every lyric, Nicki’s performance was a perfect celebration of her accomplishments as an artist. 

BLACKPINK’s highly anticipated comeback single “Pink Venom” warranted an incredible performance and they did not disappoint. With chic black outfits and tight choreography, the Korean girl group delivered the best performance of the night. 

The biggest event of VMA night, though, was Taylor Swift announcing her upcoming album “Midnights.” The announcement caught many fans off guard as Swift had appeared to be teasing “1989 (Taylor’s Version” recently. Another highlight of the night was when Jack Harlow brought out Fergie to help him perform his smash hit single “First Class,” which features a sample from Fergie’s “Glamorous.” 

Taylor Swift and Lil Nas X stunned in some of the best looks of the night. Swift wore a naked Oscar de la Renta dress made from jewels strung across her body. Fans have speculated that the outfit was an allusion to her longtime feud with rapper Ye West. Lil Nas X wore a black feathered bottom piece and gorgeous feathered headdress. Lizzo’s flowy dress was also of note. The navy blue gown was elegant and beautiful, in contrast to some of the campier, more casual looks of the night. Annita’s quirky red dress was one of the most slept on outfits of the night. The unique cutout and design were breathtaking. 

As for awards, Taylor Swift won video of the year for her “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” short film. Bad Bunny won artist of the year, Billie Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever” won song of the year. Dove Cameron took home Best New Artist.  Harry Styles’ Harry’s House won album of the year and “INDUSTRY BABY” by Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow won collaboration of the year.

By Sawyer Sugarman