What Is 2017 MTV Video Music Awards

Overview

The 2017 MTV Video Music Awards marked a pivotal moment in pop culture, blending high-energy performances with politically charged statements and major music video debuts. Held on August 27, 2017, at The Forum in Inglewood, California, the event celebrated the year's most influential music videos and artists, with a strong emphasis on social commentary and artistic innovation.

Hosted by pop icon Katy Perry, the show featured standout performances from artists like Lorde, Miley Cyrus, and Shawn Mendes. The night was dominated by Kendrick Lamar, who took home six awards, and Taylor Swift, who made headlines with the world premiere of her controversial 'Look What You Made Me Do' video.

• Kendrick Lamar won a total of six awards, the most of any artist that night, including Video of the Year and Best Hip-Hop Video.
• The ceremony was held at The Forum in Inglewood, California, a venue with a seating capacity of approximately 17,500 for concerts.
• Taylor Swift used the VMAs to debut her single 'Look What You Made Me Do', which broke Vevo's 24-hour viewing record with 43.2 million views.
• Katy Perry served as the official host, marking her first solo hosting gig after previous appearances in 2010 and 2013.
• Kendrick Lamar was honored with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, recognizing his impact on music and visual storytelling.

Performances & Highlights

The 2017 VMAs featured a mix of explosive performances, emotional tributes, and surprise debuts that captivated audiences worldwide. From politically charged lyrics to bold fashion statements, the night reflected the cultural tensions and creative energy of the year.

• Kendrick Lamar opened the show with a powerful medley of 'DNA.' and 'Humble.', performing atop a tilted platform with synchronized dancers.
• Taylor Swift made a dramatic entrance in a throne room set, debuting her music video and performing choreography inspired by prison imagery.
• Miley Cyrus performed 'Younger Now' in a retro-inspired set, showcasing a shift from her previous edgier image to a more country-pop aesthetic.
• Lorde performed 'Liability' solo on a minimalist stage, drawing praise for her emotional delivery and vulnerability.
• Logic delivered a poignant performance of '1-800-273-8255' alongside suicide survivors, emphasizing mental health awareness.
• Shawn Mendes performed 'There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back' with energetic choreography, marking his breakout moment on the VMA stage.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of top nominees and winners highlights the dominance of hip-hop and pop in 2017, with Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift leading the pack.

The 2017 VMAs averaged 5.3 million viewers across MTV and its affiliated networks, a slight decline from previous years but still a strong showing. The shift toward socially conscious themes and high-concept visuals reflected broader trends in music and media, with artists using the platform to make political and personal statements.

Why It Matters

The 2017 MTV Video Music Awards were more than just an awards show—they were a cultural moment that highlighted the evolving role of music in addressing social issues and shaping public discourse. From Kendrick Lamar’s politically charged performance to Logic’s suicide prevention anthem, the night underscored music’s power to inspire change.

• Kendrick Lamar’s Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award recognized his influence in merging lyrical depth with cinematic visuals.
• The premiere of 'Look What You Made Me Do' signaled Taylor Swift’s rebranding as a darker, more defiant artist.
• MTV’s decision to feature mental health advocacy elevated public conversations around suicide prevention.
• The show’s diverse lineup reflected a broader industry shift toward inclusion and representation.
• Viewership trends indicated a growing preference for live event moments over traditional award outcomes.
• The 2017 VMAs set a precedent for future ceremonies to blend entertainment with activism and social commentary.

Ultimately, the 2017 VMAs served as a mirror to the cultural and political climate of the year, proving that music awards can be both visually spectacular and socially significant.