Every year, I look forward to watching the MTV Video Music Awards. The only downside is that the show marks the end of summer. Throughout the years, including this year, some pretty amazing things have happened. Here are some of my favorites.
1. Kanye interrupting Taylor Swift (2009).
I remember it so vividly: where I was, how I reacted. Drunk on Hennessy, West made a complete fool of himself on stage. Seven years later, and the feud between Swift and West still lives on today. Not to mention, the long running "Imma let you finish" jokes have not died.
2. Lady Gaga's gag-worthy dress (2010).
No one could ever forget when Lady Gaga arrived on the VMA carpet wearing nothing but raw meat. Why? Who made it? Did she not smell like a dead animal all night? Six years later and I still have so many questions.
3. Beyonce's baby reveal (2011).
One word: iconic. Not only did Beyonce announce her pregnancy in the most adorable way, she did so after delivering a killer performance of her song "Love on Top." To see Blue Ivy's big debut, skip to 4:18.
4. Michael Jackson tribute (2009).
At the 2009 VMA's, Janet Jackson performed a fantastic tribute to her brother Michael. Only three months after the King of Pop's passing, Janet brought the crowd to their feet, and tears to their eyes. Watching this still gives me chills every time. From the synchronized choreography, to the reactions from the audience, you can't help but get emotional.
5. Awkward audience reactions (2013).
Sometimes, the best part of the show is watching the celebrities in the audience react to what's going on. From them cheering, to dancing, to throwing shade, the best moments are often found in the crowd. The 2013 VMA's specifically was chock full of great audience footage.
6. Beyonce's 2016 performance.
It's no surprise that Beyonce makes this list twice. Her 15 minute "Lemonade" medley had the perfect mix of upbeat songs, slow ballads, flawless vocals and choreography. It made me want to call up the boyfriend I don't have and yell at him for the cheating he never did.
7. Rihanna's "Love on The Brain" performance (2016).
You could have easily called this years VMA's "The Rihanna-Beyonce Awards." Of the four performances Rihanna did that night, her "Stay," "Diamonds," "Love on the Brain" mashup was my favorite. I love watching her high energy performances with choreography, but she really showcased her vocals and reminded everyone that she is a very versatile talent.
8. NSYNC reunion (2013).
At the 2013 VMA's, Justin Timberlake performed a 15 minute medley of some of his greatest hits prior to receiving the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard award. He rounded out the medley by reuniting with his fellow NSYNC bandmates on the stage. Seeing Justin, J.C, Joey, Lance and Chris on the stage together after so long brought me back to my childhood. (Side note: Lance Bass was my first celebrity crush. Then came my Ricky Martin obsession. Little did I know...)
9. Ariana Grande's performance (2016).
Ariana Grande just blows me away every time. One of the only artists out there right now who could deliver vocals as good as the studio version while riding an exercise bike, doing squats, and lifting weights. She makes it look so effortless.
10. Lady Gaga's "Paparazzi" performance (2009).
Does that not ring a bell? What about if I said, "Hey, remember that time Lady Gaga pretended to bleed out from her stomach on stage?" When I first saw this in 2009, I was traumatized! It really freaked me out, I think I had trouble sleeping that night. However, watching it back, I found it to be so cool and different from anything I've ever seen. When the blood starts to drip from her stomach, you can literally hear the crowd gasp in unison. That, to me, is a performer. Someone who can evoke such a reaction from their audience and keep them on their toes.
11. Drake and Rihanna confirm their relationship (2016).
For years, everyone has been wondering if Drake and Rihanna were a couple. Despite the songs they've made together and the times they have been photographed together, they have never confirmed anything. Until Drake came out dressed to the nines to present Rihanna with the 2016 Vanguard award. He made an adorable speech, admitting that he has been in love with her since he was 22 years old. In case math isn't your thing, that was seven years ago. The couple also sealed the perfect moment with a kiss.