The 2019 MTV VMAs has their Video Vanguard Recipient and it’s none other than Missy Elliott.
With a legacy that spans three decades, Elliott is one of the most influential musicians known for elevating other music artists. It’s no surprise that she’s receiving one of MTV’s highest honors and joining the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Madonna, Guns N’ Roses, Britney Spears, Kanye West, Rihanna, and P!nk.
“Missy’s impact on the music landscape is indelible,” said Bruce Gillmer, Head of Music and Music Talent, Viacom and Co-Brand Head, MTV International. “Her creative vision across production, performance and songwriting is unmatched.”
Elliott is a groundbreaking solo superstar, pioneering producer, songwriter, singer, rapper and cultural icon who has transformed the global music scene. The five-time GRAMMY® Award winner has achieved unprecedented success and sold over 30 million records worldwide. Known for classic hit singles, “Work It,” “Get Ur Freak On” and “WTF (Where They From),” Elliott leads the field in her innovation, creativity and influence on other artists. Earlier this year, she was named the first female hip-hop artist inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Elliott has an honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music, and is the only female rapper to have six studio albums certified platinum, including her debut 1997 album “Supa Dupa Fly,” and 2002 blockbuster “Under Construction.”
Earlier this summer, MTV revealed the nominees for this year’s VMAs and some of music’s leading ladies are ahead of the pack. Female powerhouses Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift top the list with ten nominations each, and will compete for “Video of the Year,” “Song of the Year,” “Best Pop,” “Best Direction,” “Best Visual Effects,” “Best Editing,” “Best Art Direction,” and “Best Cinematography.” Pop newcomer Billie Eilish is up for nine categories this year, with Lil Nas X collecting eight nominations for his smash hit “Old Town Road” with Billy Ray Cyrus. To view the full list of nominees, click here.
Hosted by Sebastian Maniscalco, the 2019 MTV VMAs will feature performances from Missy and previously announced Taylor Swift and air LIVE from the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ on Monday, August 26th @ 8PM ET/PT on MTV.
There is still time to vote for the VMAs! Fans can show love for their favorite music video in fourteen gender-neutral categories through Thursday, August 15 by visiting vma.mtv.com.
