The 2018 VMAs aired on Monday night and they did not disappoint. From J. Lo‘s epic performance to a serious immigration moment, these were the standouts.
Jennifer Lopez’s Incredible Moves
Lopez took the VMAs stage for an epic performance on Monday night. She performed a high-energy medley of J. Lo favorites like “Jenny From the Block,” “Dinero,” “Love Don’t Cost a Thing.” At one point, she had Ja Rule join her for their hit, “I’m Real.” The performance included Lopez being suspended above the stage, ass shaking and intense choreography. She did all that while singing live — which proved why she earned the Video Vanguard Award.
After her performance, Shawn Mendes gave Lopez the award. “This is really a tremendous honor for me,” the 49-year-old said. “I kinda had to forge my own path and make my own rules.”
During her lengthy speech, she was gracious and humble and, above all, thanked her children for giving her strength. Lastly, she thanked her boyfriend, Alex Rodriguez. “You’re like my twin soul. We’re like mirror images of each other… You make me realize that every day the sky is not the limit.”
Nicki Minaj Proved She’s Royalty
Just 10 days after the release of Queen, Nicki Minaj took the VMAs stage for a medley of her songs. She started the medley looking like a queen on a golden throne with unicorns on both sides. She performed “Barbie Dreams” and “Fefe” (sans 6ix9ine). The first of which has her name dropping artists that were also present at the MTV show including DJ Khaled and Quavo.
Cardi B’s ‘Baby’ Surprise
As promised, Cardi B opened the 2018 award show. She stunned with a short ‘do and a sassy red dress. She carried what appeared to be a baby in a swaddle onstage with her. “I got a little surprise for you, you know what I’m saying?” she slyly said while unwrapping the ‘baby’ which actually turned out to be a moon man. “Welcome to the 2018 VMAs!”
Logic Drew Attention to Immigration
Logic never misses an opportunity to bring serious issues to light. For this particular one, he joined together with Ryan Tedder for “One Day.” They were followed on stage by kids in t-shirts reading the words, “We Are All Human.” According to Rolling Stone, everyone that joined them was “displaced by immigration laws.” To make even more of a statement, Logic donned a shirt that read, “F*** the wall.”
Shawn Mendes Braved the Elements
Mendes performed “In My Blood” on Monday night and, boy, was it a memorable moment. Radio City Music Hall was transformed for the performance and it looked like a storm was brewing. Lightning appeared around the venue as the 20-year-old sang. By the song’s end, the intensity grew and rain poured from the ceiling until Mendes’ white tank top was soaking wet.
What was your favorite moment from the 2018 VMAs? See photos of stars arriving on the pink carpet here and get caught up with the winners here.
