Katy Perry took center stage at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (September 11) and wowed fans with a career-defining performance after receiving the prestigious Video Vanguard Award. The ceremony, hosted by Megan Thee Stallion at New York’s UBS Arena, saw Perry revisit some of her biggest hits while also giving fans a glimpse of what’s next.
The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards were full of unforgettable moments, including standout wins by rising and established stars. Chappell Roan took home the coveted Best New Artist award, further solidifying her status as one to watch. Sabrina Carpenter won Song of the Year for her hit track Espresso, a song that has dominated the charts and captivated listeners with its catchy hook and relatable lyrics.
However, the night truly belonged to Taylor Swift, who swept the awards with an impressive seven wins. Her victories spanned multiple categories, cementing her reign as one of the most influential artists of her generation.
Kicking off her performance, Perry floated into the stage’s center with a powerful rendition of Dark Horse, wearing a futuristic ensemble that reflected her forward-thinking artistry. From there, she soared above the audience, transitioning effortlessly into E.T., a perfect throwback to her evolution as a pop icon.
One of the night’s biggest surprises came when Perry announced a new track from her upcoming album 143. She performed I’m His, He’s Mine, a fresh collaboration with rising star Doechii, who joined her on stage. The song, set to be the third single from 143, was performed live for the first time atop a transparent stage that captivated the audience.
In true Katy Perry fashion, the medley was a celebration of her most iconic moments. She brought back the energy of her unforgettable 2015 Super Bowl Halftime Show with hits like California Gurls, Teenage Dream, I Kissed A Girl, and Firework. To top it off, she introduced another new track from 143, titled Lifelines, complete with a symbolic blue butterfly prop that added a theatrical flair to her set.
The upcoming album 143, set for release on September 20, promises to be one of Perry’s most personal and innovative projects yet. The lead single, Woman’s World, sparked heated debate upon release, but it was notably absent from her VMA setlist.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Perry expressed gratitude to MTV for supporting her unique vision from the start. “Thank you for believing in my weirdness from day one and for helping artists extend their worlds beyond a song,” she said. She also gave a special shoutout to her KatyCats, friends, and the LGBTQ+ community, who she credited as key to her success.
Reflecting on her journey, Perry shared advice for other artists: “One of the biggest reasons I’m standing here right now is I learn how to block out all the moles that every single artist in this industry has to constantly fight against, especially women. I just want to say with my whole heart: Do whatever it takes to stay true to yourself and true to your art. Turn off social media, safeguard your mental health. Pause. Touch grass. Do what you were born to do just like I was born to do this”
