Lizzo Dominates the 2022 MTV VMAs: A Night of Iconic Fashion, Electrifying Performance, and Empowering Messages
The 2022 MTV Video Music Awards, held on Sunday, August 28th, was a spectacle of music, fashion, and unforgettable moments, but perhaps no star shone brighter than Lizzo. The Grammy-winning artist cemented her status as a pop culture icon, delivering a powerful performance, accepting her first-ever “Moon Person” trophy, and making a bold fashion statement that channeled legendary pop royalty. From her striking red carpet ensemble to her empowering acceptance speech, Lizzo captivated audiences and left an indelible mark on one of music’s biggest nights.
Red Carpet Grandeur: A Vision in Navy Jean Paul Gaultier
Even before gracing the stage for her performance and acceptance, Lizzo made a dramatic and memorable entrance on the VMAs red carpet. She arrived in a breathtaking, billowing navy blue gown, an exquisite creation by the renowned fashion house Jean Paul Gaultier. The dress was a masterclass in elegant design, featuring a voluminous silhouette that commanded attention with every step. Its rich navy hue exuded sophistication, providing a perfect canvas for Lizzo’s confident presence.
Complementing the gown, Lizzo’s styling was nothing short of sultry and avant-garde. Her hair was slicked back, styled with a glossy “wet-look” finish that added a touch of contemporary edge. But it was her choice of makeup that truly elevated the ensemble: a deep, emerald green painted pout that offered a striking contrast to the navy dress, highlighting her bold individuality. This daring lip color was further accented by a unique lip ring, which added an unexpected punk-rock flair to her otherwise glamorous appearance. The look was meticulously completed with elegant leafy earrings and sheer gloves, adding layers of intricate detail and proving Lizzo’s prowess as a fashion visionary. This initial red carpet statement set the tone for an evening where Lizzo would consistently deliver iconic looks, blending high fashion with her signature playful and powerful aesthetic.
Lizzo certainly looked like an icon while accepting her very first Moon Man during MTV’s 2022 Video Music Awards on Sunday, Aug. 28. The “Truth Hurts” songstress channeled Madonna in a black Jean Paul Gaultier cone gown as she took the stage to accept the Video For Good honor for her song “About Damn Time”. This moment was a significant milestone in her career, marking her official induction into the exclusive club of VMA winners and solidifying her impact on the music industry. The choice of a Jean Paul Gaultier cone bra gown was a direct and powerful homage to Madonna’s iconic “Blonde Ambition” tour look, a symbol of female empowerment and challenging norms, perfectly aligning with Lizzo’s own ethos.
Channelling Madonna: Accepting the Coveted Video For Good Award
One of the most talked-about moments of the night was Lizzo’s acceptance of the “Video For Good” award for her empowering anthem, “About Damn Time.” As she ascended the stage to receive her first-ever Moon Person, Lizzo was a vision of pop royalty, draped in a magnificent black Jean Paul Gaultier gown. This wasn’t just any gown; it was a modern reinterpretation of Jean Paul Gaultier’s legendary cone bra design, famously popularized by Madonna. The structured, avant-garde silhouette, with its distinctive conical bustier, paid direct tribute to the Queen of Pop’s groundbreaking fashion statements, blending historical significance with contemporary flair.
Lizzo’s choice to wear such a historically significant and daring piece of fashion spoke volumes. It symbolized a passing of the torch, connecting her own fearless artistry and boundary-pushing style with Madonna’s legacy of challenging conventions. The gown, sleek and sophisticated in black, allowed Lizzo to embody both strength and glamour, underscoring the powerful message she was about to deliver. The “Video For Good” award itself recognized “About Damn Time” not just for its catchy beats and infectious energy, but for its positive impact and uplifting message, celebrating themes of self-love, resilience, and joy – themes central to Lizzo’s artistic identity.
An Empowering Message to Millions: “Vote to Change Some of These Laws”
During her acceptance speech, the singer, born Melissa Viviane Jefferson, seized the moment to deliver a profound and urgent message to her fans and the millions watching. Beyond expressing gratitude for the award, Lizzo used her platform to advocate for civic engagement and social change, underscoring the power of individual voices. “Your vote means everything to me. It means everything to making a change in this country,” she declared, her voice resonating with conviction. She continued, urging her audience, “So remember when you’re voting for your favorite artist, vote to change some of these laws that are oppressing us.”
This powerful statement transcended the typical award show rhetoric, shifting the focus from celebrity adulation to real-world issues. Lizzo’s call to action was a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of art and activism, demonstrating her commitment to using her influence for good. Her speech was praised for its courage, clarity, and directness, resonating deeply with many who felt a need for artists to speak out on pressing societal matters. By linking the act of voting for one’s favorite artist with the broader responsibility of participating in democratic processes, Lizzo brilliantly highlighted the significant impact that collective action can have on challenging oppressive systems and fostering a more equitable society. It was a defining moment of the night, solidifying Lizzo’s role not just as an entertainer, but as a vital voice for social justice.
An Electrifying Performance: “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)” and “About Damn Time”
Earlier in the show, Lizzo proved beyond a doubt why she is considered one of the most dynamic performers in music today, delivering an electrifying medley that showcased her vocal prowess, incredible stage presence, and unique visual artistry. She took the stage in a dazzling and sexy pink ensemble, perfectly embodying her vibrant and confident personality. The eye-catching outfit shimmered under the stage lights, captivating the audience as she began her performance. The medley kicked off with a tantalizing snippet of “About Damn Time,” immediately getting the crowd on their feet with its infectious groove and uplifting lyrics.
The transition then smoothly sailed into her latest single, “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready),” a powerful anthem exploring themes of vulnerability and self-acceptance. What made this performance particularly innovative and visually stunning was her backup “ensemble.” Lizzo was supported not by traditional dancers, but by dozens of digital versions of herself. These “little Lizzos” appeared on giant screens behind her, creating a vibrant, kaleidoscopic effect. A rainbow of these digital figures shimmied, shaked, and danced in perfect synchronicity, amplifying the energy and conveying a powerful message of self-love and solidarity. This creative visual choice not only added an incredible layer of theatricality to the performance but also symbolically represented the various facets of Lizzo’s personality and her expansive influence. The entire segment was a masterclass in stagecraft, blending powerful live vocals with groundbreaking digital visuals, solidifying Lizzo’s reputation as an artist who constantly pushes creative boundaries and delivers unforgettable live experiences.
.@lizzo at the #VMAs: “Your vote means everything to me. It means everything to making a change in this country. So remember when you’re voting for your favorite artist, vote to change some of these laws that are oppressing us.” pic.twitter.com/EKGb3nZIOn
— The Leadership Conference (@civilrightsorg) August 29, 2022
Indeed, Lizzo’s dynamic presence on and off the stage was a highlight, establishing her as a true showstopper. Her red carpet appearance in the billowing navy blue Jean Paul Gaultier gown, complete with a wet-look hairdo and distinctive deep green lipstick, set a high bar for fashion that evening. This bold and sultry look, adorned with a lip ring, leafy earrings, and sheer gloves, was the perfect prelude to her electrifying performance and heartfelt acceptance speech. Her ability to seamlessly transition from high fashion to high energy performance underscored her versatility and profound impact on the night.
Beyond Lizzo: Other Unforgettable Moments at the 2022 VMAs
While Lizzo certainly commanded much of the spotlight, the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards was packed with a multitude of memorable performances and significant moments that celebrated the diverse landscape of contemporary music. The show successfully brought together a dazzling array of artists from various genres, ensuring there was something for every music lover.
Legendary Collaborations and Triumphant Returns
One of the most anticipated and talked-about performances featured hip-hop titans Eminem and Snoop Dogg. They teamed up for a unique and visually inventive rendition of their hit “From the D 2 the LBC.” What made this performance particularly special was its innovative execution, which virtually connected the two iconic artists performing from concerts on opposite coasts. This display of technological prowess combined with raw talent highlighted the enduring power of their collaboration, thrilling fans with a blend of classic and contemporary hip-hop energy.
The rock world also had its moment with Panic! At The Disco making their first VMAs appearance since 2018. Their return to the stage underscored MTV’s commitment to showcasing a broad spectrum of musical styles, proving that the network continues to celebrate bands with a dedicated following. Proving MTV’s impressive range, the network rounded out the performances with a star-studded lineup that included global sensations like Bad Bunny and J. Balvin, the captivating Italian rock band Måneskin, the dynamic duo of Marshmello and Khalid, the multifaceted artist Jack Harlow, and country music star Kane Brown. Kane Brown’s performance was particularly historic, as he became the first male country artist to play solo at the VMAs, marking a significant moment for country music’s increasing presence in mainstream pop culture.
Dynamic Hosts and Honored Icons
The show itself was a collective triumph, expertly hosted by an incredible trio: hip-hop legend LL Cool J, the evening’s multi-talented performer and nominee Jack Harlow, and the esteemed Video Vanguard Award winner Nicki Minaj. Minaj, a 17-time VMAs nominee, owned her segment of the evening with an electric medley of her greatest hits, showcasing her enduring reign in the rap world and solidifying her status as a true music visionary. Her performance was a vibrant reminder of her extensive catalog of chart-topping songs and her powerful stage presence.
Further adding to the night’s honors, The Red Hot Chili Peppers were presented with the Global Icon Award by the comedic legends Cheech & Chong. This moment brought the “Californication” rockers back to the VMAs stage for the first time in two decades, igniting a wave of nostalgia and excitement among their loyal fanbase. Their acceptance speech and performance celebrated their remarkable career and their lasting influence on rock music, demonstrating that their innovative spirit continues to thrive after decades in the industry. The combination of legendary hosts, groundbreaking performances, and heartfelt tributes made the 2022 VMAs a truly unforgettable celebration of music and culture.
Leading the Pack: Top Contenders and Widespread Broadcast
The competition for the coveted Moon Person trophies was fierce, with a roster of exceptionally talented artists leading the nominations. This year, the VMAs’ top contenders were Doja Cat, Jack Harlow, and Harry Styles, each garnering an impressive eight nominations. Their multiple nods reflected their immense popularity and critical acclaim across various categories, showcasing their dominance in the music landscape. Close behind, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Lil Nas X secured seven nominations apiece, further illustrating the breadth of talent recognized at the awards. Rounding out the group of highly nominated artists was Billie Eilish, who earned six nominations, a testament to her unique artistry and global appeal. These leading nominees represented a vibrant mix of genres and styles, highlighting the diverse tastes of music fans and the ever-evolving nature of the industry.
For those eager to catch every moment of the electrifying event, the show commenced at 8 PM EST on Sunday, August 28th. The 2022 MTV Video Music Awards were made widely accessible to a vast audience, broadcasting not only on MTV but also across a multitude of other networks. Viewers could tune in on Paramount Network, BET, BET Her, CMT, Comedy Central, Logo, MTV2, Nickelodeon, Pop, TV Land, and VH1. Beyond traditional television, the awards were also available for streaming on popular platforms such as Hulu + Live TV, Fubo TV, and Sling TV, ensuring that fans across different viewing preferences could experience the excitement live. This extensive broadcast strategy underscored the VMAs’ commitment to reaching a broad demographic, celebrating music and culture on a truly global scale.
In retrospect, Lizzo’s presence at the 2022 MTV VMAs was nothing short of legendary. From her bold fashion statements that paid tribute to an icon, to her captivating performance that blended innovation with pure talent, and finally, to her inspiring speech advocating for social change, Lizzo delivered a comprehensive and unforgettable experience. She didn’t just attend the VMAs; she dominated them, proving herself to be not just a musician, but a cultural force shaping conversations around music, identity, and empowerment. Her night was a powerful reminder of her influence and her bright future as a leading voice in entertainment and activism.