Taylor Swift Reigns Supreme at MTV EMAs, Honoring Liam Payne, Celebrating Pop Pioneers

Taylor Swift dominated the 2024 MTV EMAs on Sunday, scooping up awards for Best Artist, Best US Act, Best Live Act, and Best Video for “Fortnight” (featuring Post Malone), The Associated Press reports.

Swift, currently wrapping up her Eras tour in Europe, expressed her gratitude to fans via video message.

The ceremony, held at the Co-op Live arena, featured a vibrant mix of performances and tributes. Benson Boone opened the show with his viral hit “Beautiful Things,” later accepting the award for Best New Act. South African newcomer Tyla made a strong showing, winning Best Afrobeats, Best R&B, and Best African Act, showcasing her energy with performances of “Water” and “Push 2 Start.”

Host Rita Ora, making her record-breaking third appearance, dedicated a heartfelt moment to the late Liam Payne, a former member of One Direction who passed away last month. Ora, close friends with the singer, acknowledged his kindness and the mark he left on the world.

Hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes received the EMAs Global Icon Award, his first from MTV after 34 years in the industry. The 12-time Grammy nominee delivered a powerful medley of his hits, including “Break ya Neck,” “Touch it,” and “Put Your Hands Where the Eyes can See.”

Other notable performances included Shawn Mendes, who gave an intimate and heartfelt performance while receiving the award for Best Canadian Act. Sabrina Carpenter claimed Best Song for “Espresso,” Ariana Grande was crowned Best Pop Act, and Eminem took home Best Hip Hop Act.

The inaugural Pop Pioneers Award was presented to British duo Pet Shop Boys, recognizing their significant contribution to pop music. The duo closed the show with a cover of David Bowie’s “All the Young Dudes” followed by their iconic hit “West End Girls,” marking the song’s 40th anniversary.

The evening also saw performances by K-Pop quintet Le Sserafim, Mexican singer and rapper Peso Pluma, English singer and songwriter Raye, American powerhouse Teddy Swims, and Mexican rock sisters the Warning. Awards were presented by a diverse array of personalities, including LL Cool J, Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale, mother-and-daughter musicians Neneh Cherry and Mabel, and TV and film stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Turner-Smith, and Lucien Laviscount.