This year’s 2015 MTV VMA performance lineup included a diverse group of artists. While some acts engaged viewers with high energy and quality performances, others fared in comparison.
Hits:
Nicki Minaj performing “Trini Dem Girls” and “The Night is Still Young”
The performance included elaborate costumes, provocative dancing and a visit from Taylor Swift performing “Bad Blood.” Basically, MTV put all its live performance eggs in one basket.
The Weeknd performing “Can’t Feel My Face”
There was fire. That’s all you need to know.
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis with Kool Moe Dee, Grandmaster Caz and Melle Mel performing “Downtown”
The performance took the song title literally by running through Downtown Los Angeles.
Justin Bieber performing “Where Are Ü Now” and “What Do You Mean”
Bieber comes back to the VMAs after a five year hiatus to perform his two newest hits. His performance reminded us he’s an artist focusing now more than ever on his music, with heavy choreography and lights embedded into the act. Immediately after performing, Bieber broke down in tears.
Tori Kelly performing “Should Have Been Us”
This artist has a beautiful live-performance voice and she let us know last night. Probably the realest thing the show had to offer us.
Kanye West’s Video Vanguard acceptance speech and rant
West used his time on stage to not only accept his award, but to speak to personal misfortunes as well as voice his opinions on industry issues, at one point saying, “I still don’t understand award shows.” West also announced his decision to run for president in 2020.
Twenty One Pilots and A$AP Rocky performing “Heavydirtysoul” and “Lane Boy”
Misses:
Demi Lovato with Iggy Azalea performing “Cool for the Summer”
Already the product of limited hype, Lovato’s performance was overall awkward, with what seemed as not enough rehearsal beforehand. Iggy Azalea served as a guest performer alongside Lovato, with limited sound quality.
Pharrell Williams performing “Freedom”