On Tuesday, September 12, the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards honoured some of the biggest figures in the Top 40 genre at the Prudential Centre in Newark, New Jersey.
In the first Best Afrobeats category, American pop diva Selena Gomez and Nigerian singer Rema won with their hit song “Calm Down.”
Song of the Year, Best Collaboration, and Best Afrobeats nominations for their song “Calm Down” were made by Gomez, 31, and Rema, 23.
The song won the Best Afrobeats category, beating out Ayra Starr’s “Rush,” Burna Boy’s “It’s Plenty,” Davido and Musa Key’s “Unavailable,” Libianca’s “People,” Wizkid and Ayra Starr’s “2 Sugar,” and Fireboy DML’s “Bandana.”
With his song “Calm Down,” which features Selena Gomez, Rema became the first African artist to exceed one billion Spotify streams. This victory follows that historic accomplishment. Additionally, it’s Selena’s second VMAs victory and Rema’s first in ten years. The 2013 VMAs saw Selena’s debut solo single “Come & Get It” take home the prise.
Nicki Minaj, an American rapper, served as both the show’s host and performer. Sean Diddy Combs, a legend of hip-hop, received the Global Icon Award after singing songs from his 30-year career on stage with his kids.
Shakira, a Colombian artist, performed a medley when she accepted the Video Vanguard Award.
American singer, Taylor Swift led the pack this year both in nominations and wins, with eight nods. She won seven of her eight main awards, losing Best Editing to Olivia Rodrigo’s “Vampire.”
