During the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, Shakira was recognized for her iconic contributions to music and named as this year’s Video Vanguard awardee. She used this opportunity to showcase her talent by performing a medley of her greatest hits including “She-Wolf” and “Objection (Tango).” Footage of her fiery performance can be watched through the tweet below, although an official video may be released later on. Other recent recipients of the Video Vanguard award include Nicki Minaj, Missy Elliott, Jennifer Lopez, Pink, Rihanna, Kanye West, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, Duran Duran, U2, and Red Hot Chili Peppers, while notable recipients from the previous century include Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, The Rolling Stones, Guns N’ Roses, Janet Jackson, George Michael, Michael Jackson, Madonna, and The Beatles.
Shakira is no stranger to the VMAs, having a long-standing history with the awards show dating back to 2000 when she won the International Viewer’s Choice for “Ojos AsÃ.” Since then, she has taken home three more awards and received 22 nominations. This year, Shakira was nominated for four awards, including Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration for “TGQ” with Karol G. The VMAs also featured performances from a variety of other big-name artists, such as Anitta, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Demi Lovato, and Nicki Minaj, among many others.
Minaj played host to the VMAs, which were aired live from Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. This year’s top contender was Taylor Swift with 11 nominations, closely followed by SZA with six. Additionally, Rodrigo, Doja Cat, Kim Petras, Miley Cyrus, and Sam Smith each received five nominations.