Pop sensation Taylor Swift was the star of the night at the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) held in Manchester, England, taking home a remarkable four awards. The event, which returned after a year’s hiatus due to global events, saw Swift lead the evening with the most wins, followed closely by South African singer Tyla, who also garnered multiple accolades.
Taylor Swift, who had led the nominations with seven nods, was recognised in four major categories. She won Best Artist, Best Video for her collaboration with Post Malone on the track “Fortnight”, Best Live, and Best U.S. Act. In a video message played during the ceremony, Swift expressed her gratitude to her fans, who she said had played a crucial role in her success.
“The fact that you have honored the tour, everything that’s happened with the album this year, the video, it’s just unbelievable,” said the singer, who is currently touring North America as part of her highly successful Eras Tour. Swift also highlighted the release of her latest album, The Tortured Poets Department, which came out in April.
Tyla, the South African hitmaker, was another major winner at the EMAs, walking away with three awards. The singer took home Best Afrobeats, Best R&B, and Best African Act. Tyla’s triumph marks another milestone in her rapidly growing international career, particularly in genres that have been gaining momentum on the global stage.
The MTV Europe Music Awards returned this year after a hiatus in 2023 when the event was canceled following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict. The 2024 ceremony took place at the newly opened Co-Op Live venue in Manchester, a city that has become a hub for major music events in recent years. This year’s event, which was eagerly anticipated, brought together artists from around the world, showcasing both established stars and emerging talents.
The evening also included an emotional tribute to the late singer Liam Payne, who passed away earlier this year. The tribute, led by host Rita Ora, was a touching moment for those in attendance, remembering the former One Direction member’s contributions to the music world. Ora spoke fondly of Payne’s legacy and the impact he had on his fans and fellow artists alike, adding a personal and heartfelt note to the ceremony.
Held annually in different European cities, the MTV EMAs is one of the biggest nights in the global music calendar, celebrating the diversity and creativity of the international music scene. The Manchester edition of the awards was a much-needed celebration after a year of uncertainty and global challenges. With artists like Swift and Tyla leading the way, it’s clear that the event remains a key platform for recognizing musical excellence and innovation across genres.
As the night drew to a close, the success of Taylor Swift and Tyla highlighted the growing influence of international music, with both artists representing different musical landscapes yet dominating the night. The ceremony not only celebrated their achievements but also marked a strong return for the MTV EMAs, providing a much-needed sense of unity and excitement for music fans around the world.