by Venus Sanders
The VMAs are about to get super freaky once again as Nicki Minaj takes the reins as the host of this year's fabulous celebration. Set to unfold live from the Prudential Center in New Jersey on Tuesday, September 12, the event promises to be a showstopper.
Image Credit: ANDER GILLENEA / Contributor / Getty Images
Nicki Minaj, the undisputed head-Barb-in-charge, will be back to helm MTV's Video Music Awards, much to the delight of fans worldwide. In a press release, MTV couldn't contain their excitement, revealing that the 40-year-old Queens native will not only host the show but will also unveil the star-studded lineup of performers, presenters, and winners.
Adding to the excitement, Minaj will grace the VMAs stage with a world premiere performance of her latest single, "Last Time I Saw You." This electrifying performance is sure to be one of the evening's highlights.
The hosting gig marks a significant return to the limelight for Minaj, who has been relatively low-key in recent months. Earlier this year, the "Anaconda" mastermind faced a copyright infringement lawsuit, with an artist alleging that she "directly copied" his beat for her 2014 track "I Lied." In 2021, singer Tracy Chapman also won a previous copyright suit against Minaj, resulting in a $450,000 settlement. However, the "Queen" rhymer remains unshaken, showing she's not ready to relinquish her crown.
Related articles: Drake Hints at Upcoming Album 'For All the Dogs' to Release in a Couple
Related articles: Relationships After Incarceration
With six nominations, including "Best Hip-Hop," "Video of the Year," and "Artist of the Year," Minaj is poised to shine at this year's VMAs. Her previous stint as a host alongside rappers LL Cool J and Jack Harlow at the 2022 VMAs was nothing short of sensational. This time, however, the "Starships" superstar will fly solo, taking charge of the festivities.
The night promises to be a thrilling one as top contender Taylor Swift, with an impressive eight nominations, stands a chance to sweep away an armful of moon people trophies across various categories, including "Video of the Year," "Artist of the Year," and "Song of the Year."
Mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, 53, will also bask in the spotlight as the recipient of the 2023 Global Icon Award, recognizing his enduring influence on music, fashion, politics, and education.
Furthermore, the enchanting Shakira, 46, will receive the prestigious Video Vanguard Award, a distinction previously bestowed upon Nicki Minaj during the 2022 VMAs. With such remarkable honorees and performers scheduled to grace the stage, including Anitta, Demi Lovato, Doja Cat, Karol G, Kelsea Ballerini, Lil Wayne, Måneskin, Olivia Rodrigo, Shakira, Stray Kids, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER, this year's VMAs are gearing up to be an unforgettable celebration.
Related articles: Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet's First Public Appearance
Related articles: Adele Shares Backstage Health Struggle During Las Vegas Residency
Excitement is mounting as the date draws nearer. Olivia Rodrigo, 20, expressed her enthusiasm on Thursday, tweeting, "Soooo excited to perform at the VMAs." Meanwhile, Lil Wayne's official X account echoed the sentiment, proclaiming, "[Lil Wayne] is hitting the #VMAs stage for the first-ever performance of his new song 'Kat Food!'" It's safe to say that the VMAs are gearing up for a night of pure star power, and with Nicki Minaj at the helm, it's sure to be an evening to remember.