No one upstaged a sweet teenaged award winner. There was no “surprise” lip lock, or even a failed comeback performance from a pop princess. And the night’s most daring outfit paled in comparison to the pasties and meat garments past.
MTV’s Video Music Award show didn’t offer any surprises, but it did give a glimpse of the Top 40 to come. In case you missed it, here are the seven things you need to know about the VMAs.
Frank Ocean gave a stirring performance.
It was the most tweeted about moment of the VMAs, according to MTV. With a fire burning in the background, a singular guitarist playing and “moonlight” above, Frank Ocean poignantly crooned “Thinking About You.”
It’s One Direction’s time.
Boy bands are back and One Direction is leading the way. Katy Perry even sang along to the boys’ performance.
The European group won three awards, including Best Pop Video and Best New Artist honors. Its hit single “What Makes You Beautiful” propelled it to VMA success. The group won the first award of the night and saw its Moon Man break seconds after receiving it. Good thing they won a spare.
Amber Rose’s pregnancy was confirmed.
It was no Beyonce moment from last year, but when rapper Wiz Khalifa and obviously pregnant girlfriend Amber Rose hit the red carpet, it confirmed what many have said for weeks. While presenting an award, Khalifa said the pair expects its latest addition in the next six months.
There was new hair everywhere.
Rihanna showed up with super short hair. Miley Cyrus got her MTV debut for her new scissored locks. Chris Brown had a two-toned mane, and Alicia Keys showed off an angular bob.
Twihards got a first look at the final "Twilight" installment.
The whole “Twilight” clan -- sans Kristen Stewart -- took the stage to introduce the trailer for “Breaking Dawn Part 2.” Robert Pattinson was the final actor to pitch to the clip, which opened with an intimate scene between Pattinson and Stewart.
The event showcased some musical diversity.
A video about Drake’s bar mitzvah won for best hip-hop video. Boy bands were nominated in the show’s biggest categories. Green Day performed, and country singer Taylor Swift closed the show.
The Fab Five made an appearance.
The golden girls from the Olympics introduced Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire” performance, then Gabby Douglas executed some acrobatics during the set.
Follow Imaeyen Ibanga on Twitter @iicnn.
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