The 2020 Video Music Awards might be totally different than what we’re used to seeing in the previous years, but that doesn’t mean it’s not going to be huge. The New York City is gearing up to host the 2020 VMAs as one of the very first physical awards show that will take place since the coronavirus pandemic earlier this year.
In India, fans can watch this iconic annual event exclusively on Vh1 and Voot Select on Monday, August 31, starting with the Red-Carpet special at 5:30 pm, followed by the main event at 7 pm. The complete event will be repeat telecasted at 9:30 pm.
Bringing the first major event to viewers, Ferzad Palia, Head – Voot Select, Youth, Music and English Entertainment, Viacom18, said “We’re living in extraordinary times during which music has kept up spirits and been one of the primary sources of entertainment for most of us. At Vh1 India, we continue to ply viewers with the best and latest of lifestyle, music & music-related content including the biggest award shows and events. Along with Vh1 India, showcasing the 2020 VMA on Voot Select is yet another step in satiating the entertainment and content needs of viewers by letting them choose their preferred mode and platform of consumption. We’re constantly scaling the reach of our offerings for viewers, thus keeping them perpetually entertained.”
This year’s VMAs will be hosted by the quintessential Keke Palmer and it will take viewers around the magnificent city of New York with stellar artists such as Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, Miley Cyrus, Black Eyed Peas and many more. Adding to the evening filled with star-studded and glamorous performances, BTS will be performing their latest record-breaking single.
The VMAs have received an exemption from New York’s COVID-19 quarantine rules, the event was allowed since NYC has recently seen its local infection rate drop to one per cent. Originally it was slated to take place at the NYC’s Barclays Center but later has been moved to various undisclosed outdoor locations across the city, and will go ahead without any attendees.
Nominations
Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga top the list with nominations for 9 awards, followed by Billie Eilish, The Weeknd with six each and Taylor Swift with 5 nominations. 17-year old Tate McRae is bagging her first nomination in the ‘Push Best New Artist’ category.
Two new categories are added in the 2020 edition of VMAs – ‘Best Music Video From Home’ and ‘Best Quarantine Performance’ to recognize and toast the artists that didn’t let the pandemic stop the music. Apart from that, after more than 20 years, the ‘Best Alternative’ category is returning to the show.
Half hour delayed for censorship. Every year since 2014, awards on Viacom’s channels are ruined by social media spoiler. There hasn’t been a true live telecast of any awards since EMAs 2013. Let’s hope OTT makes a difference this year and we get live VMAs on Voot Select.