Host Keke Palmer and Lady Gaga went through the most clothing changes. Lady Gaga wore nine different gowns and costumes, each with a mask. Host Keke Palmer started out in a feathery, sparkly gown to kick off the night but ended in a bodysuit and rainbow heels. The men came dressed to impress as well. The Weeknd mirrored his character in “Blinding Lights” with a sharp red suit and black gloves to match.
Keke Palmer hosted and performed at the 2020 Video Music Awards with lots of energy. “We dedicate tonight’s show to a man whose spirit touched so many, a true hero,” she said about Chadwick Boseman. She mentioned COVID-19 and the recent protests, saying the year has been rough but inspirational. “Music can heal, it’s all love, and that’s what tonight is about,” she said.
This year, the MTV VMA performances happened in a variety of places because of COVID-19. The Weeknd was the first performer of the night, singing “Blinding Lights” about 1,000-feet above the ground. Miley Cyrus performed “Midnight Sky,” ending by swinging on a disco ball. Doja Cat performed “Say So” and “Like That” in space. Lady Gaga did a medley of her tunes. She added Ariana Grande, also performing in a mask, for “Rain on Me.” Keke Palmer and surprise finale performers Black Eyed Peas performed at Brooklyn’s Brookline Skyline drive-in.
Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande won three awards for their song “Rain on Me.” Taylor Swift won her first directing award, the Best Direction award, for her song “The Man.” The Weeknd won Video of the Year for “Blinding Lights.” The singer also won the Best R&B award for the song. Accepting his award for Video of the year, the Weeknd gave perhaps the shortest speech.“Justice for Jacob Blake and Breonna Taylor,” he said.
