NSYNC Legend Lance Bass Offers Exclusive VMA Performance Wisdom to Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande

As the world eagerly anticipates the annual MTV Video Music Awards, a familiar voice from pop music’s past has emerged to offer invaluable advice to this year’s top performers. Lance Bass, the acclaimed 41-year-old singer and former member of the iconic boy band NSYNC, knows firsthand the immense pressure and unparalleled thrill that comes with gracing the VMA stage. Drawing from his own storied experiences, Bass recently shared his wisdom in an EXCLUSIVE interview with HollywoodLife, specifically targeting artists like Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande, who are set to deliver what promises to be one of the most talked-about performances of the upcoming virtual ceremony. His insights are particularly relevant as these global superstars prepare to transform the stage with their collaboration on “Rain On Me,” aiming to create a truly unforgettable VMA moment.

From NSYNC’s Stardom to Modern Icons: Lance Bass’s Unique Perspective

Lance Bass isn’t just a pop star; he’s a VMA veteran. His tenure with NSYNC saw the group deliver some of the most memorable and high-energy performances in the awards show’s history, solidifying their place in pop culture. From their iconic synchronized dance routines to groundbreaking visual spectacles, NSYNC consistently raised the bar for live performances on the VMA stage. This unique background gives Bass a perspective few contemporary artists possess. He understands the meticulous planning, the grueling rehearsals, and the sheer audacity required to craft a VMA moment that resonates long after the credits roll. For artists like Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande, who operate at the pinnacle of global superstardom, the VMAs represent not just an awards show, but a monumental opportunity to make a powerful statement, to captivate millions, and to leave an indelible mark on the music landscape. Bass’s insights are therefore not merely well-wishes but seasoned guidance from someone who has successfully navigated that very spotlight, consistently delivering performances that became benchmarks for their era.

The Core of Lance’s Advice: ‘Enjoy Every Minute’

When asked what he would impart to Gaga and Ariana as they prepare for their highly anticipated performance, Bass’s primary piece of advice was refreshingly simple yet profoundly important: “One, just enjoy every minute of it,” he EXCLUSIVELY told HollywoodLife. In an industry where the pursuit of perfection often overshadows the experience itself, this reminder to savor the moment is particularly poignant. Bass acknowledged the immense stress associated with delivering a flawless performance on such a massive platform, recognizing that artists pour their hearts, souls, and countless hours into perfecting these moments. However, he emphasized that despite the pressure to be the best and to outdo previous acts, taking a crucial step back to appreciate the magnitude of the occasion is vital. These are rare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that pass quickly, and the ability to truly be present and soak it all in can enhance not only the personal experience for the performer but also imbue the performance itself with greater authenticity and joy.

Building on this sentiment, Lance further elaborated on the distinctive nature of the MTV Video Music Awards stage. “So understand why you are there and with MTV, the VMAs is all about the performance,” he stated. Unlike other award ceremonies that might prioritize acceptance speeches or industry accolades, the VMAs have always been synonymous with groundbreaking, visually spectacular, and often controversial performances. This is the stage where artists are expected to push boundaries, to innovate, and to surprise audiences with their creativity. Bass’s experience with NSYNC undoubtedly informed this perspective; their own VMA performances were renowned for their intricate choreography, elaborate staging, and undeniable showmanship, consistently leaving a lasting impression. He urged Gaga and Ariana to fully embrace this spirit of extravagance and bold artistry: “you always have to outdo your last performance so this is the one time that you should really go over the top and do something really cool and definitely something out of the box so people will be talking about it the next day.” This isn’t just about singing a song; it’s about meticulously crafting a cultural moment that dominates conversations, fuels social media buzz, and ultimately becomes an integral part of VMA lore.

Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande: A Dynamic Duo Primed for VMA History

The anticipation for Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande’s joint VMA performance is, understandably, sky-high. Fans globally are not merely expecting a standard rendition of their chart-topping collaboration “Rain On Me”; they are bracing for a full-fledged spectacle that marries their individual artistic strengths. The song, which dropped earlier this year, quickly ascended to become an anthem of resilience, joy, and emotional release, brilliantly marrying Gaga’s signature theatricality with Grande’s soaring pop sensibilities and powerful vocal delivery. The track is not just a commercial success, dominating charts worldwide, but also a critical darling, praised for its infectious beat, empowering lyrics, and the undeniable chemistry between these two vocal powerhouses. Their collaboration was a significant event in itself, bringing together two of the most influential female artists of their generation, and their live performance at the VMAs is poised to be an even grander affair, fulfilling the promise of a truly iconic pairing.

The groundwork for an epic VMA showing was already meticulously laid with the release of the iconic music video for “Rain On Me” in May. The visual masterpiece captivated audiences with its futuristic, rain-drenched aesthetic, showcasing both singers in brightly-colored metallic outfits that were a feast for the eyes and ignited fashion trends. The video was a masterclass in choreographed movement, featuring intricate dance routines that highlighted their individual strengths while seamlessly blending their styles. Ariana Grande even momentarily shed her signature high ponytail, a subtle yet significant detail that added to the video’s unexpected allure and demonstrated her willingness to experiment. The visuals were bold, the message powerful, and the execution flawless – all elements that strongly suggest their live VMA performance will elevate this artistic vision to new, exhilarating heights, potentially incorporating live versions of the stunning costumes, dynamic choreography, and futuristic stage design that made the video so impactful and memorable.

“Rain On Me” hails from Gaga’s critically acclaimed sixth studio album, Chromatica, an album that delves into profound themes of healing, self-discovery, and the cathartic power of dance music. Given the song’s established status as a global dance hit, it’s no wonder that its live debut at the VMAs is among the most eagerly awaited segments of the show. Lady Gaga herself has been exceptionally vocal about her excitement, actively keeping her legions of fans updated through her vibrant social media channels. On August 28, she posted a captivating photo of herself showcasing her vibrant new aqua-colored hair, clearly brimming with anticipation for the big night. Her playful caption, “I’m so excited for the VMA’s I keep taking selfies 😐 @arianagrande 💕🧚‍♀️🧚‍♀️IM A MONSTER #RainOnMe #chromatica,” perfectly encapsulates the bubbling energy surrounding this collaboration and the artists’ genuine enthusiasm. This intense pre-show buzz, organically fueled by the artists themselves, only amplifies the already immense expectations, promising a performance that embodies and even surpasses the “go over the top” advice generously offered by Lance Bass.

Ariana Grande, for her part, also brings a wealth of VMA experience and a sterling reputation for delivering breathtaking vocal performances and captivating stage presence. Her previous VMA appearances have often been characterized by incredible vocal runs, meticulous choreography, and visually stunning backdrops that complement her powerful artistry. The undeniable synergy between her consistently powerful voice and Gaga’s unparalleled theatricality is precisely what makes “Rain On Me” so compelling as a duet, and witnessing that dynamic unfold live on the VMA stage will undoubtedly be a paramount highlight. Their combined artistry and established track records suggest they are perfectly poised to heed Lance Bass’s seasoned advice and truly create an unforgettable, talked-about moment that flawlessly merges their individual strengths into a spectacular, cohesive, and historically significant whole.

The Challenges and Opportunities of a Virtual VMA Experience

This year’s VMAs present a unique set of circumstances, as the show transitions to a virtual format due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While the traditional large-scale arena experience, complete with thousands of screaming fans, might be absent, this unprecedented shift also opens doors for previously unimaginable creative approaches. Instead of a single venue, performers are set to take stages at various iconic locations across New York City, with either a “limited audience” or, in some cases, none at all. This forces artists, directors, and producers to radically rethink traditional performance structures, thereby encouraging innovation that could lead to even more intimate, visually distinct, or technologically advanced presentations. The inherent challenge lies in maintaining the VMAs’ signature energy and unparalleled spectacle without the immediate roar of a live crowd, but the immense opportunity lies in redefining what a major awards show performance can truly be in this new, rapidly evolving modern era of entertainment.

Crafting Memorable Moments in a New Era

For artists like Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande, the virtual setting offers an expansive blank canvas for unparalleled experimentation. They are no longer confined to the usual stage setup and its inherent limitations; instead, they can harness the unique architecture and ambiance of various distinctive New York City landmarks, or even utilize cutting-edge virtual reality and augmented reality technologies to create incredibly immersive experiences that transcend physical boundaries. Imagine a performance of “Rain On Me” where the “rain” effect is digitally enhanced to an unprecedented, hyper-realistic degree, or where the metallic outfits from the music video are brought to life with dynamic projections and interactive, reactive elements that respond to their movements. The thoughtful absence of a large live audience might also allow for a more intense focus on intricate camera work, dynamic editing, and compelling close-up shots, drawing viewers deeper into the emotional and artistic core of the performance. This could lead to a more cinematic, personal, and profoundly impactful viewing experience, demonstrating that “going over the top” can take many innovative forms beyond mere physical scale.

The VMAs have always been a cultural touchstone, consistently reflecting and shaping trends in music, fashion, and performance art globally. Even in this new virtual era, its importance remains undiminished. It continues to be a crucial platform for artists to connect with their immense fanbases on a global scale and to make powerful, often political or social statements through their music and visuals. The unwavering commitment of artists like Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande to perform, despite the inherent logistical complexities and unprecedented challenges, underscores the profound significance they place on this revered event and their deep dedication to their craft and, most importantly, their loyal audience. Their willingness to adapt, innovate, and push boundaries in these challenging times promises to deliver a VMA show that is not just a temporary substitute, but a pioneering blueprint for the exciting future of large-scale entertainment and televised music events.

NSYNC’s Enduring VMA Legacy and the Future of Pop Performance

Lance Bass’s advice carries particular weight and historical significance because it comes directly from a prominent member of NSYNC, a group universally renowned for their consistently show-stopping VMA appearances. Their performances, often characterized by incredibly elaborate choreography, perfectly synchronized movements, and infectious, boundless energy, unequivocally set a benchmark for boy band performances and live pop acts of their entire era. From their iconic “Bye Bye Bye” performance, where they emerged as marionettes on strings, to other unforgettable moments that cemented their status, NSYNC deeply understood the assignment: to not just perform, but to entertain, to amaze, and to create lasting, cherished memories for millions of viewers. This incredible legacy is precisely what Bass is drawing upon when he so passionately encourages today’s brightest stars to “go over the top” and “do something out of the box.” He is, in essence, passing on the torch of VMA spectacle and daring innovation, ensuring that the spirit of audacious creativity and artistic boundary-pushing continues to define this revered awards show for generations to come.

As we eagerly await the moment Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande prepare to rock the house at the upcoming VMAs, Lance Bass’s heartfelt words serve as a potent and timely reminder: while unparalleled talent, meticulous hard work, and relentless dedication are undeniably paramount, the fundamental ability to truly enjoy and enthusiastically embrace the moment itself is ultimately what transforms a great performance into an iconic, unforgettable one. Their groundbreaking collaboration on “Rain On Me” has already powerfully demonstrated their unparalleled artistry and creative synergy, and with Bass’s seasoned, valuable advice echoing in their ears, they are perfectly positioned to deliver a VMA experience that not only meets but dramatically exceeds every single expectation. The MTV Video Music Awards, even in its dynamically transformed virtual state, remains an absolutely vital platform for vibrant artistic expression and the creation of truly unforgettable cultural moments, and with visionary artists like Gaga and Grande at the helm, its future as a global spectacle of pop culture is undeniably secure and exceptionally bright.

The fusion of timeless wisdom from a cherished pop legend and the boundless, innovative creativity of contemporary superstars promises an extraordinary and historically significant event. The VMAs continue to be the most prominent stage where musical history is made, where artists fearlessly push their limits, and where fans worldwide witness the exhilarating evolution of music and performance art. Whether presented virtually or in-person, the fundamental essence of the VMAs — dynamic artistry, groundbreaking innovation, and unforgettable spectacle — remains constant, and we can all look forward with immense excitement to a night of truly groundbreaking, awe-inspiring entertainment that will be talked about for years to come.