It was the city, it was the moment. But it seems that the stars did not align. Manchester hosted the 2024 MTV EMA awards this Sunday. Liam Gallagher won the trophy for best rock artist, but there was no sign of the other half of Oasis. This summarizes a night marked by absences.
The first absence was Taylor Swift. The singer won the most awards (up to four) but was nowhere to be seen. She chose to watch her boyfriend play rather than travel to the British city, disappointing the thousands of swifties who dreamed of a surprise appearance like she did in Dusseldorf two years ago.
Another notable absence was Rosalía. The Catalan artist released only three songs in 2024, yet it was enough for her to win the MTV Europe award for best collaboration of the year with her single 'New Woman' featuring Lisa from Thailand.
She had previously won this award in 2019 for 'Con altura' with J Balvin. That single put her on the international stage when she was only recognized in Spain. Now, she is a global star. Just a few days ago, she was seen helping the victims of DANA in Valencia, but she was not seen accepting the award.
Also absent was Lola Índigo, chosen by fans as the Best Spanish artist. In a category where she competed with Belén Aguilera, Mikel Izal, Dani Fernández, and Ana Mena. However, it can be forgiven considering that almost none of the country winners were present.
The only Spanish accent was brought by Peso Pluma. First, when accepting the award for Best Latin Artist, Estevan Plazola shouted "Long live double P! Long live Mexico!" on stage.
Later, they returned to perform their single 'Hollywood' accompanied by a band in a set resembling the iconic Hollywood sign.
A stumble almost ruined the night for South African artist Tyla. Despite winning three awards ('best Afrobeat artist', 'R&B artist', and 'African artist'), she almost fell while dancing with her backup dancers.
This viral moment adds to her previous mishap at the Met Gala in New York, where she had to be carried up the stairs by several men due to her restrictive dress. She knows how to capture attention.
Two standout figures in the industry were also recognized. Pop diva Sabrina Carpenter won best song for the hit Espresso, and Benson Boone received the coveted award for 'Best New Artist'.
Boone opened the gala suspended in the air while playing a golden piano and performing his hit Beautiful Things. This single propelled him to success, and now he must prove if his career goes beyond that.
Nostalgic moments were brought by the incomparable Pet Shop Boys, closing the night with a visual spectacle alongside the local orchestra Manchester Camerata. Busta Rhymes celebrated the Global Icon Award with a mix of his greatest hits, becoming one of the most recorded performances of the night.
Local artist Raye was also well-received, appearing with thirty backing vocalists and a live band, bringing back the spirit of Amy Winehouse to a venue transformed into a dreamy nightclub.
Shawn Mendes's performance, returning next week with a new album after a mental health break, was lackluster. And LE SSERAFIM showcased why K-pop captivates so many people. You simply can't take your eyes off them.