Explore

TrendpostTrendpost
How the VMAs Build Unpredictability Into a Highly Planned Live Show

How the VMAs Build Unpredictability Into a Highly Planned Live Show

Discover the production secrets that turn MTV's Video Music Awards into must-see TV by embracing, and even manufacturing, unscripted chaos.
TrendpostTrendpost
How the MTV VMAs Turn a Three-Minute Performance Into a Live-TV Engineering Problem

How the MTV VMAs Turn a Three-Minute Performance Into a Live-TV Engineering Problem

Discover the intense logistical and technical challenges behind a single three-minute MTV VMA performance, from rapid set changes to complex audio-visuals.
TrendpostTrendpost
How Broadcast Delays Can Shape What Viewers See During Live Awards Shows

How Broadcast Delays Can Shape What Viewers See During Live Awards Shows

Ever wondered how a 'live' broadcast can censor a swear word? Here's the inside story on how and why VMA speeches are edited in real time.
TrendpostTrendpost
How VMA Production Techniques Make Performances Feel Bigger on TV

How VMA Production Techniques Make Performances Feel Bigger on TV

Discover the production secrets, from camera illusions to augmented reality, that make MTV VMA performances feel larger than life for viewers at home.
TrendpostTrendpost
How Cueing and Control Systems Coordinate a Live VMA Broadcast

How Cueing and Control Systems Coordinate a Live VMA Broadcast

An inside look at the high-tech cueing systems and human coordination that prevent the notoriously chaotic MTV VMAs from descending into total disaster.
TrendpostTrendpost
How VMA Set Design Turns Brand Identity Into Broadcast Storytelling

How VMA Set Design Turns Brand Identity Into Broadcast Storytelling

A look at how the epic stages of the MTV VMAs are more than just spectacle, serving as a crucial tool for artists to tell their stories.
TrendpostTrendpost
How VMA Lighting Turns Live Performances Into Distinct Visual Worlds

How VMA Lighting Turns Live Performances Into Distinct Visual Worlds

Explore the complex art and technology behind the MTV VMAs, where lighting directors design the stage not just for a live show, but for a dozen music videos at once.
TrendpostTrendpost
Why Sound Mixing at the VMAs Is Harder Than It Looks

Why Sound Mixing at the VMAs Is Harder Than It Looks

Ever wonder why a huge show like the MTV VMAs has audio glitches? Here’s a look at the chaotic, high-stakes world of live broadcast sound.
TrendpostTrendpost
How Camera Direction Shaped Four Memorable VMA Performances

How Camera Direction Shaped Four Memorable VMA Performances

Discover the unseen directorial strategies and camera work that turned iconic VMA performances from stars like Beyoncé and Britney Spears into unforgettable moments.
TrendpostTrendpost
How Labels Decide Which Singles to Push Around a VMA Performance

How Labels Decide Which Singles to Push Around a VMA Performance

Discover the complex strategy, high-stakes budgets, and data-driven decisions that determine which artists and songs get a coveted VMA performance.
USA TodayUSA Today
Taylor Swift to receive first-of-its-kind honor at 2026 VMAs

Taylor Swift to receive first-of-its-kind honor at 2026 VMAs

The singer enters the Sept. 27 ceremony with a record 30 competitive wins, and nominations for video and artist of the year.
USA TodayUSA Today
VMAs most outrageous moments of all time

VMAs most outrageous moments of all time

From Britney Spears and Madonna's kiss to Lady Gaga's meat dress, it's time to relive the most shocking moments from MTV Video Music Awards past.