MTV VMAs 2023 makes history, with Taylor Swift and Beyonce leading all-women nominations

In a historic move, the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) have shattered barriers by nominating an all-women lineup for their Artist of the Year category for the very first time. 

An all-women lineup

Since its inception in 2017, the Artist of the Year award has held a prominent place within the VMAs, signifying the culmination of an artist's impact on the music scene over the past year.

This year, the nominees include an array of extraordinary women artists who have left an indelible mark on the industry. 

• The star-studded list comprises the likes of the incomparable Beyoncé, the dynamic Doja Cat, the trailblazing Karol G, the ever-innovative Nicki Minaj, the globally adored Shakira, and the multi-talented Taylor Swift. 

The inclusion of only women in the Artist of the Year category carries immense significance. This constellation of talented women not only represents diverse musical genres but also embodies the spirit of artistic prowess, resilience, and innovation that the award symbolises. 

As the nominations were unveiled, fans and industry insiders alike were quick to recognise the monumental shift. 

Taylor Swift stands out with the most nominations, securing eight nods, including Song of the Year for Anti-Hero.

• With 14 VMAs already to her name, Swift's dominance in the awards is evident. 
• Her track record includes wins for Bad Blood and You Need to Calm Down, and she holds the record for the most Video of the Year wins, poised to extend it to four if Anti-Hero takes the prize.

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R&B artist SZA follows closely behind with six nominations, while Doja Cat, Olivia Rodrigo, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Sam Smith, and Kim Petras each have five nominations to their credit.

A notable highlight is the presence of 35 first-time nominees this year, including Ice Spice and K-pop girl group FIFTY FIFTY, who gained attention with their viral song Cupid.

Furthermore, this year's VMAs also mark a crucial moment of recognition for the Latin music scene. Both Shakira and Karol G's nominations for Artist of the Year highlight the global appeal of their music and the increasing impact of Latin artists on the international stage. 

No men nominated for Video of the Year

The nominations for the coveted Video of the Year award also feature an impressive lineup of artists who have defied conventions and expectations.

• Among them, Miley Cyrus and SZA represent the strength and creativity of female artists who have been pushing artistic boundaries and resonating with audiences on a profound level. 

The inclusion of nonbinary artist Sam Smith reflects the VMAs' recognition of the spectrum of gender identities and their commitment to embracing all voices.

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The decision to honour exclusively women nominees underscores the influence these women wield in shaping musical trends, cultural narratives, and inspiring audiences worldwide. It's a recognition that extends beyond just their music, encapsulating their influence as cultural icons, advocates for change, and sources of inspiration for millions, reminding us that equality and inclusion are not merely buzzwords but powerful catalysts for change.

The VMAs will be broadcast live on September 12, 2023.