The 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its 30th anniversary. This iconic event, which has been honoring the world’s most talented musicians for three decades, returned to the United Kingdom for a spectacular show that left a lasting impression. Hosted at Manchester’s Co-op Live on Sunday, November 10, the 2024 MTV EMAs brought together some of the biggest names in the music industry, fans, and artists from around the world, making it a night to remember.
Voting and Nominations: The Road to the 2024 MTV EMAs
Leading up to the big night, the competition was intense as voting began across various categories. Taylor Swift dominated the nominations, emerging as the frontrunner with an impressive seven nominations. These included high-profile categories such as Best Artist, Best Video, Best Pop, and Biggest Fans. Swift’s widespread influence in the music industry and her fanbase’s dedication ensured that she would be a major presence at the ceremony.
Other notable artists who garnered multiple nominations were Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Charli XCX, and Sabrina Carpenter, each receiving five nominations for categories including Best Song, Best Video, and Best Artist. This lineup reflected a mix of established stars and rising talents, underscoring the diversity and talent that continues to shape the global music scene.
Additionally, several artists who have made a significant impact this year were recognized with four nominations. These included Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and LISA, all of whom have earned global acclaim for their music and performances. Other first-time nominees such as Chappell Roan and Tyla also received notable recognition, marking a key moment in their respective careers. This year’s MTV EMAs not only celebrated musical icons but also highlighted emerging artists who are poised to make their mark on the world stage.
As the excitement mounted, Kehlani and Tinashe joined the ranks of first-time nominees, further illustrating the inclusivity of the event, which welcomes talent from all over the globe, regardless of their experience or previous recognition.
The Night of Winners: 2024 MTV EMAs Showcases the Best in Music
The 2024 MTV EMAs were filled with dazzling performances, heartfelt speeches, and plenty of surprises. Artists from all genres competed fiercely for coveted awards across various categories, from Best Artist and Best Video to Best Regional Act. The following is a detailed look at the major award categories and their winners:
Best Song
- Winner: Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso”
The Best Song category was one of the most competitive of the night, with artists like Ariana Grande, Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, and Chappell Roan vying for the top spot. However, it was Sabrina Carpenter who emerged victorious with her hit song “Espresso.” Her win was celebrated by fans who have been following her rise in the pop world, marking a key moment in her career. Carpenter’s win was a testament to her growing influence and the infectious appeal of her music.
Best Video
- Winner: Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight
In the Best Video category, Taylor Swift and Post Malone’s collaboration on the video for “Fortnight” clinched the win. Known for their visual storytelling and captivating imagery, Swift and Malone’s collaboration stood out among other visually stunning music videos. Competing against nominees like Ariana Grande, Kendrick Lamar, and LISA ft. Rosalía, “Fortnight” was a standout, showcasing not only musical talent but also artistic creativity in music videos.
Best Artist
- Winner: Taylor Swift
The Best Artist award is one of the most coveted trophies at the MTV EMAs, and this year it was awarded to none other than Taylor Swift. Known for her chart-topping hits and groundbreaking albums, Swift continues to be a dominant force in the global music industry. Her win in this category reflected her ongoing success, artistic evolution, and unwavering dedication to her craft. Other nominees like Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, and Post Malone may have had their own passionate fanbases, but it was Swift who walked away with the night’s biggest accolade.
Best Collaboration
- Winner: LISA ft. Rosalía – “NEW WOMAN”
When it comes to collaborations, 2024 saw some incredible partnerships, but the Best Collaboration award went to LISA and Rosalía for their hit song “NEW WOMAN.” The fusion of LISA’s K-pop flair with Rosalía’s unique Latin influence created a powerful and unforgettable track that captivated audiences worldwide. This win highlights the growing cross-cultural collaborations in the music industry, as artists from different backgrounds continue to push boundaries and create innovative music that resonates with fans across the globe.
Best New Artist
- Winner: Benson Boone
The Best New Artist category recognized the freshest talent in the music industry, and this year, Benson Boone was crowned the winner. Boone’s rise in the music scene has been swift, and his debut win at the MTV EMAs shows that he has what it takes to stand out among the many emerging artists in the industry. Competing against talented newcomers like Ayra Starr, Chappell Roan, and Tyla, Boone’s win marked a new chapter in his career, and it’s clear that fans can expect big things from him in the future.
Best Pop
- Winner: Ariana Grande
Pop music has been defined by some of the most iconic artists of our time, and in 2024, it was Ariana Grande who claimed the Best Pop award. Known for her powerful vocals and chart-topping hits, Grande’s impact on the pop genre is undeniable. She faced stiff competition from other pop superstars like Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Taylor Swift, but her consistent output of hits and her influence on modern pop culture made her the clear winner in this category.
Best Afrobeats
- Winner: Tyla
The rise of Afrobeats as a dominant genre in global music has been undeniable, and in 2024, Tyla took home the Best Afrobeats award. Her win reflects the genre’s growing international presence, with other nominees like Burna Boy, Ayra Starr, and Rema all contributing to the genre’s rise. Tyla’s unique sound and cross-genre appeal have made her a standout in the Afrobeats scene, and this win highlights her continued success.
Best Rock
- Winner: Liam Gallagher
Liam Gallagher’s win in the Best Rock category was a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of rock music. As a member of Oasis and a solo artist, Gallagher has maintained a loyal following, and this win at the MTV EMAs only cements his status as one of rock’s true legends. Competing against rock icons like Coldplay, Bon Jovi, and Green Day, Gallagher’s victory highlights his ability to remain relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape.
Best Latin
- Winner: Peso Pluma
Latin music continues to dominate global charts, and Peso Pluma’s win in the Best Latin category reflects the genre’s worldwide influence. Competing with top artists like Anitta, Karol G, and Shakira, Peso Pluma’s win is indicative of his rising star power and the increasing impact of Latin artists on the global stage.
Best K-Pop
- Winner: Jimin
K-pop has become a global phenomenon, and in 2024, it was Jimin who took home the Best K-Pop award. Jimin’s win is another sign of the K-pop industry’s growing influence, as more and more artists from South Korea continue to make waves in the global music scene. His win is a testament to his global fanbase and his status as one of the genre’s most prominent figures.
Best Hip-Hop
- Winner: Eminem
Eminem continues to reign supreme in the world of hip-hop, as he took home the Best Hip-Hop award in 2024. Known for his lyrical prowess and unique style, Eminem remains one of the genre’s most influential and successful artists. Competing against other hip-hop giants like Kendrick Lamar and Megan Thee Stallion, Eminem’s win highlights his continued dominance in the music world.
Best R&B
- Winner: Tyla
Tyla made her mark yet again with her win in the Best R&B category. With her unique blend of Afrobeat influences and contemporary R&B, Tyla has captured the attention of fans worldwide. Her second win of the night proves that she is not only a rising star in Afrobeats but also a force to be reckoned with in the R&B genre.
Best Live
- Winner: Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s live performances are legendary, and she took home the Best Live award at the 2024 MTV EMAs. Known for her elaborate stage productions and emotional performances, Swift’s live shows have consistently garnered critical acclaim and captivated audiences around the world. Her win in this category further solidifies her position as one of the greatest performers of her generation.
Regional Act Winners
The MTV EMAs also recognized talent from various regions around the world, highlighting the global nature of the music industry. Here’s a look at the regional act winners:
Best African Act
- Winner: Tyla
Best Asian Act
- Winner: Mahalini
Best Australian Act
- Winner: Kylie Minogue
Best Canadian Act
- Winner: Shawn Mendes
Best UK & Ireland Act
- Winner: RAYE
Best US Act
- Winner: Taylor Swift
Biggest Fans Award
- Winner: LISA
LISA’s win in the Biggest Fans category was a reflection of her incredibly loyal and dedicated fanbase, which has grown exponentially over the years. Known for her charismatic performances and presence, LISA’s win in this category highlights her status as a global superstar with one of the most devoted followings in music today.
A Night of Unforgettable Performances and Wins
The 2024 MTV EMAs were a true celebration of music, talent, and diversity. From Taylor Swift’s multiple wins to the rise of new artists like Benson Boone and Tyla, the event showcased the broad spectrum of talent that defines the modern music scene. With unforgettable performances, emotional speeches, and stunning visual moments, the 2024 MTV EMAs reaffirmed its place as one of the most prestigious events in the music world, honoring both established icons and rising stars.
