MTV VMAs 2023 Nominations: Taylor Swift Leads with Record-Breaking Nods, Full List Unveiled

The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) continue to be a cornerstone event in the music industry, celebrated annually for honoring the most innovative and impactful music videos of the year. The 2023 ceremony is set to captivate audiences worldwide, airing live from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on Tuesday, September 12, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Fans across more than 150 countries will tune in to witness who takes home the coveted Moon Person trophies. The excitement officially kicked off on August 8, when MTV unveiled the highly anticipated list of nominees, sparking immediate buzz among artists and fans alike.

Leading the charge this year is global superstar Taylor Swift, who has garnered an impressive 8 nominations, solidifying her status as one of the most celebrated artists in VMA history. Her smash hit “Anti-Hero” is a frontrunner in the prestigious “Video of the Year” category. Should Swift emerge victorious in this category, she will achieve an unprecedented milestone, becoming the only artist ever to win “Video of the Year” four times, further cementing her legacy in music video artistry. Her nominations span across several major categories, reflecting her immense artistic and commercial success over the past year.

Following closely behind Taylor Swift are a stellar lineup of artists, each boasting 6 nominations. This group includes critically acclaimed SZA, genre-bending sensation Doja Cat, rising star Kim Petras, pop icon Miley Cyrus, and hip-hop queen Nicki Minaj. Their multiple nods highlight a vibrant and diverse landscape within contemporary music, showcasing a wide array of musical styles and visual narratives that have resonated deeply with audiences globally. These artists are poised to make a significant impact at this year’s awards, with several of them competing directly in some of the most competitive categories.

The 2023 VMAs also celebrate a new generation of talent, with several artists receiving their very first nominations. This year’s class of breakout stars includes Kim Petras (who also has multiple nods), producer extraordinaire Metro Boomin, Afrobeats sensation Rema, soulful vocalist Ayra Starr, regional Mexican music phenom Peso Pluma, dynamic rapper GloRilla, viral sensation Ice Spice, versatile artist Reneé Rapp, and City Girls member Yung Miami. Many of these first-time nominees have earned multiple nominations, underscoring their significant impact on the music scene in a relatively short period. Their presence in the nominee pool signifies a shift in the industry and highlights the diverse and evolving tastes of music audiences.

As the countdown to the VMAs continues, fans can anticipate more exciting announcements regarding performers, presenters, and special tributes in the coming weeks. The ceremony promises to be a night filled with unforgettable performances, emotional wins, and iconic fashion moments, all celebrating the power of music and its visual storytelling. Below, you will find the comprehensive list of nominees for the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, showcasing the incredible talent vying for this year’s top honors.

VIDEO OF THE YEAR, Presented by Burger King®

This highly coveted award recognizes the year’s most outstanding music video, considering creativity, artistic vision, and overall impact. The nominees for Video of the Year represent a powerful collection of visual masterpieces that have defined pop culture moments and pushed artistic boundaries.

Doja Cat – “Attention” – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Columbia Records
Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl” – Republic Records
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records

ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Celebrating the artist who has made the most significant impact across all platforms over the past year, this category acknowledges consistent excellence in music, performance, and overall presence. The nominees are true titans of the industry, each having delivered compelling work that resonated globally.

Beyoncé – Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia Records
Doja Cat – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records
KAROL G – Interscope Records
Nicki Minaj – Republic Records
Shakira – Sony Music US Latin
Taylor Swift – Republic Records

SONG OF THE YEAR

This award honors the most impactful and popular song of the year, recognizing its cultural significance, lyrical depth, and musical artistry. These tracks have dominated airwaves, streaming platforms, and personal playlists, becoming anthems for millions.

Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Columbia Records
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down” – Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records
Steve Lacy – “Bad Habit” – L-M Records / RCA Records
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records

BEST NEW ARTIST

The Best New Artist category highlights the fresh faces and breakthrough talents who have made a remarkable debut or significant rise to prominence in the past year. These nominees represent the future of music, bringing new sounds and perspectives to the forefront.

GloRilla – CMG / Interscope Records
Ice Spice – 10K Projects / Capitol Records
Kaliii – Atlantic Records
Peso Pluma – Double P Records
PinkPantheress – 300 Entertainment
Reneé Rapp – Interscope Records

PUSH PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR

Celebrating artists featured in MTV’s global PUSH artist program, this award recognizes standout performances that helped introduce new music and talent to a wider audience throughout the year. It’s a testament to the power of live performance and artist development.

August 2022: Saucy Santana – “Booty” – Arena Records / RCA Records
September 2022: Stephen Sanchez – “Until I Found You” – Mercury Records / Republic Records
October 2022: JVKE – “golden hour” – AWAL
November 2022: Flo Milli – “Conceited” – ’94 Sounds / RCA Records
December 2022: Reneé Rapp – “Colorado” – Interscope Records
January 2023: Sam Ryder – “All The Way Over” – Elektra Entertainment
February 2023: Armani White – “GOATED” – Def Jam
March 2023: FLETCHER – “Becky’s So Hot” – Capitol Records
April 2023: TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Sugar Rush Ride” – BIGHIT MUSIC / Republic Records
May 2023: Ice Spice – “Princess Diana” – Heavy On It / 10K Projects / Capitol Records
June 2023: FLO – “Losing You” – Uptown/Republic Records
July 2023: Lauren Spencer Smith – “That Part” – Island Records

BEST COLLABORATION

This category honors the most successful and impactful musical pairings of the year, showcasing how artists from different backgrounds and genres can come together to create something truly special. These collaborations often lead to unexpected and memorable hits.

David Guetta & Bebe Rexha – “I’m Good (Blue)” – Warner Records
Post Malone, Doja Cat – “I Like You (A Happier Song)” – Mercury Records / Republic Records
Diddy ft. Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, Yung Miami – “Gotta Move On” – Motown Records
KAROL G, Shakira – “TQG” – Universal Music Latino
Metro Boomin with The Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy – “Creepin’ (Remix)” – Boominati / Republic Records
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down” – Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records

BEST POP

This category celebrates the best in contemporary pop music, recognizing artists who have created catchy, vibrant, and broadly appealing tracks that dominate the charts and capture the essence of mainstream appeal. From upbeat anthems to heartfelt ballads, these nominees define the sound of pop today.

Demi Lovato – “Swine” – Island Records
Dua Lipa – “Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album)” – Atlantic Records
Ed Sheeran – “Eyes Closed” – Atlantic Records
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Columbia Records
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records
P!NK – “TRUSTFALL” – RCA Records
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records

BEST HIP-HOP

Recognizing the most influential and innovative works within the hip-hop genre, this category showcases tracks that push lyrical boundaries, production excellence, and cultural relevance. From established legends to rising stars, these artists represent the diverse sounds of hip-hop.

Diddy ft. Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, Yung Miami – “Gotta Move On” – Motown Records
DJ Khaled ft. Drake & Lil Baby – “STAYING ALIVE” – We The Best / Epic Records
GloRilla & Cardi B – “Tomorrow 2” – CMG / Interscope Records
Lil Uzi Vert – “Just Wanna Rock” – Atlantic Records / Generation Now
Lil Wayne ft. Swizz Beatz & DMX – “Kant Nobody” – Young Money Records
Metro Boomin ft Future – “Superhero (Heroes and Villains)” – Boominati / Republic Records
Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl” – Republic Records

BEST R&B

This award honors excellence in Rhythm and Blues, highlighting songs that feature soulful vocals, intricate melodies, and smooth production. The nominees in this category demonstrate the enduring appeal and evolution of R&B music, blending tradition with contemporary sounds.

Alicia Keys ft. Lucky Daye – “Stay” – RCA Records
Chlöe ft. Chris Brown – “How Does It Feel” – Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia
Metro Boomin with The Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy – “Creepin’ (Remix)” – Boominati / Republic Records
SZA – “Shirt” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
Toosii – “Favorite Song” – South Coast Music Group / Capitol Records
Yung Bleu & Nicki Minaj – “Love In The Way” – Empire Distribution

BEST ALTERNATIVE

The Best Alternative category recognizes artists who defy easy categorization, blending genres and experimenting with unique sounds to create music that stands apart from the mainstream. These nominees are celebrated for their distinctive artistic vision and innovative approaches.

blink-182 – “EDGING” – Columbia Records
boygenius – “the film” – Interscope Records
Fall Out Boy – “Hold Me Like A Grudge” – Fueled By Ramen
Lana Del Rey ft. Jon Batiste – “Candy Necklace” – Interscope Records
Paramore – “This Is Why” – Atlantic Records
Thirty Seconds To Mars – “Stuck” – Concord Records / Concord

BEST ROCK

Celebrating the power and energy of rock music, this award spotlights artists who continue to push the genre forward with their raw talent, compelling lyrics, and electrifying performances. From classic rock sounds to modern interpretations, these nominees embody the spirit of rock and roll.

Foo Fighters – “The Teacher” – RCA Records
Linkin Park – “Lost (Original Version)” – Warner Records
Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Tippa My Tongue” – Warner Records
Måneskin – “THE LONELIEST” – Arista Records
Metallica – “Lux Æterna” – Blackened Recordings
Muse – “You Make Me Feel Like It’s Halloween” – Warner Records

BEST LATIN

This category recognizes the vibrant and rapidly expanding world of Latin music, honoring artists who have delivered chart-topping hits and culturally significant videos. The nominees showcase the rich diversity of Latin genres, from reggaeton to regional Mexican, captivating global audiences.

Anitta – “Funk Rave” – Republic Records
Bad Bunny – “WHERE SHE GOES” – Rimas Entertainment
Eslabon Armado, Peso Pluma – “Ella Baila Sola” – DEL Records, Inc. / Prajin Parlay, Inc. Grupo Frontera Bad Bunny – “un x100to” – Rimas Entertainment
KAROL G, Shakira – “TQG” – Universal Music Latino
ROSALÍA – “DESPECHÁ” – Columbia Records
Shakira – “Acróstico” – Sony Music US Latin

BEST K-POP

Highlighting the global phenomenon of K-Pop, this award celebrates the genre’s explosive popularity and its artists’ meticulously crafted music videos, innovative choreographies, and dedicated fanbases. These nominees are at the forefront of K-Pop’s international appeal.

aespa – “Girls” – SM ENTERTAINMENT Co., Ltd.
BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – YG Entertainment / Interscope Records
FIFTY FIFTY – “Cupid” – ATTRAKT / Warner Records
SEVENTEEN – “Super” – HYBE / Geffen Records
Stray Kids – “S-Class” – JYP / Republic
TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Sugar Rush Ride” – BIGHIT MUSIC / Republic Records

BEST AFROBEATS

The Best Afrobeats category shines a spotlight on the influential and rapidly growing genre originating from West Africa, showcasing its infectious rhythms, vibrant storytelling, and global impact. These artists are pivotal in bringing Afrobeats to the world stage.

Ayra Starr – “Rush” – Mavin Global Holdings
Burna Boy – “It’s Plenty” – Atlantic Records / Spaceship Entertainment Ltd
Davido ft. Musa Keys – “UNAVAILABLE” – Sony Music U.K. / RCA Records
Fireboy DML & Asake – ”Bandana” – Empire Distribution
Libianca – “People” – Sony Music U.K. / RCA Records
Rema & Selena Gomez – “Calm Down” – Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records
Wizkid ft Ayra Starr– “2 Sugar” – Starboy / RCA Records

VIDEO FOR GOOD

This special category honors music videos that carry powerful social messages, inspire positive change, and raise awareness for important causes. These nominees demonstrate how music and visuals can serve as a potent tool for advocacy and community impact.

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Orchestral) – NETFLIX
Bad Bunny – “El Apagón – Aquí Vive Gente” – Rimas Entertainment
Demi Lovato – “Swine” – Island Records
Dove Cameron – “Breakfast” – Columbia Records
Imagine Dragons – “Crushed” – KIDinaKORNER / Interscope Records
Maluma – “La Reina” – Sony Music US Latin

BEST DIRECTION

Recognizing the creative vision behind the camera, Best Direction celebrates the directors who masterfully translate music into compelling visual narratives. This award highlights the intricate artistry and storytelling prowess required to bring a music video to life.

Doja Cat – “Attention” – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records – Directed by Tanu Muiño
Drake – “Falling Back” – OVO/Republic Records – Director X (Julien Christian Lutz)
Kendrick Lamar – “Count Me Out” – pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Directed by Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – 300 Entertainment – Directed by Colin Tilley
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records – Directed by Floria Sigismondi
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records – Directed by Christian Breslauer
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records – Directed by Taylor Swift

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

This award honors the visual brilliance and technical expertise of the cinematographers who craft the stunning imagery in music videos. It recognizes the skillful use of lighting, camera work, and visual composition to create a distinctive aesthetic and mood.

Adele – “I Drink Wine” – Columbia Records – Cinematography by Adam Newport-Berra
Ed Sheeran – “Eyes Closed” – Atlantic Records – Cinematography by Natasha Baier
Janelle Monae – “Lipstick Lover” – Atlantic Records – Cinematography by Allison Anderson
Kendrick Lamar – “Count Me Out” – pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records 0 Cinematography by Adam Newport-Berra
Miley Cyrus – “Flowers” – Columbia Records – Cinematography by Marcell Rev
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records – Cinematography by Russ Fraser
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records – Cinematography by Rina Yang

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

Celebrating the artistry and technical innovation in visual effects, this category recognizes videos that use CGI, animation, and other digital enhancements to create immersive and fantastical worlds. These nominees push the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Fall Out Boy – “Love From The Other Side” – Fueled By Ramen – Visual Effects by Thomas Bailey and Josh Shaffner
Harry Styles – “Music For A Sushi Restaurant” – Columbia Records – Visual Effects by Chelsea Delfino and Black Kite Studios
Melanie Martinez – “VOID” – Atlantic Records – Visual Effects by Carbon
Nicki Minaj – “Super Freaky Girl” – Republic Records – Visual Effects by Max Colt and Sergio Mashevskyi
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records – Visual Effects by Max Colt / FRENDER
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records – Visual Effects by Parliament

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

This award honors the most captivating and innovative dance performances and routines in music videos. It recognizes the choreographers and dancers who bring dynamic movement and visual rhythm to the screen, elevating the artistic expression of the song.

BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – YG Entertainment / Interscope Records – Choreography by Kiel Tutin, Sienna Lalau, Lee Jung (YGX), Taryn Cheng (YGX)
Dua Lipa – “Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album)” – Atlantic Records – Choreography by Charm LaDonna
Jonas Brothers – “Waffle House” – Republic Records – Choreography by Jerry Reece
Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – 300 Entertainment – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Panic! At The Disco – “Middle Of A Breakup” – Fueled By Ramen – Choreography by Monika Felice Smith
Sam Smith, Kim Petras – “Unholy” – Capitol Records – Choreography by (LA)HORDE – Marine Brutti, Jonathan Debrouwer, Arthur Harel

BEST ART DIRECTION

This award celebrates the meticulous planning and execution of visual elements, including set design, props, costumes, and overall aesthetic. Best Art Direction acknowledges the creative teams who build immersive and visually captivating environments within music videos.

boygenius – “the film” – Interscope Records – Art Direction by Jen Dunlap
BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – YG Entertainment / Interscope Records – Art Direction by Seo Hyun Seung (GIGANT)
Doja Cat – “Attention” – Kemosabe Records / RCA Records – Art Direction by Spencer Graves
Lana Del Rey ft. Jon Batiste – “Candy Necklace” – Interscope Records – Art Direction by Brandon Mendez
Megan Thee Stallion – “Her” – 300 Entertainment – Art Direction by Niko Philipides
SZA – “Shirt” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records – Art Direction by Kate Bunch

BEST EDITING

Recognizing the crucial role of editing in shaping the rhythm, flow, and narrative of a music video, this award honors editors who skillfully piece together footage to create a dynamic and coherent visual experience. Their work is essential in enhancing the video’s impact and storytelling.

BLACKPINK – “Pink Venom” – YG Entertainment / Interscope Records – Editing by Seo Hyun Seung (GIGANT)
Kendrick Lamar – “Rich Spirit” – pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records – Edited by Grason Caldwell
Miley Cyrus – “River” – Columbia Records – Edited by Brandan Walter
Olivia Rodrigo – “vampire” – Geffen Records – Edited by Sofia Kerpan and David Checel
SZA – “Kill Bill” – Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records – Edited by Luis Caraza Peimbert
Taylor Swift – “Anti-Hero” – Republic Records – Edited by Chancler Haynes