The 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) are set to dazzle audiences at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena on Sunday, with a star-studded lineup and a few poignant moments expected during the show. Hosted by pop star Rita Ora, the EMAs are returning to the UK for the first time since 2017. The night will feature a range of performers and nominees, including Shawn Mendes, Raye, and South African singer Tyla, as well as some prominent UK artists like hometown hero Liam Gallagher, who is also up for awards.
Taylor Swift leads the night with seven nominations, including for best artist and best video for her recent hit “Fortnight” with Post Malone. Swift is no stranger to the EMAs, having been nominated multiple times in the past. However, a victory across all her nominated categories would only allow her to match Justin Bieber’s record of 22 EMA awards rather than exceed it. Nonetheless, she has the chance to make history as the first artist to win “Best Artist” three times, currently sharing the two-win record with Shawn Mendes.
Swift won’t be the only one looking to break records. Beyoncé, nominated for “Song of the Year” for her country-inspired single “Texas Hold ‘Em,” could become the first artist to win this award three times. Her competition includes Sabrina Carpenter’s summer hit “Espresso” and Chapel Roan’s viral anthem “Good Luck, Babe,” each proving to be popular among fans and critics alike.
For this year’s EMAs, Busta Rhymes is set to receive a lifetime achievement award, recognizing his enduring influence on hip-hop and his legendary career spanning over three decades. The Brooklyn-born rapper has a surprising connection to the UK, having spent childhood summers in the northwest of England with family, which he describes as a pivotal experience. Busta Rhymes will deliver a performance medley of his iconic hits, including “Woo-Hah!! Got You All In Check,” “Break Ya Neck,” and “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See.” In his acceptance speech, he shared how honored he was, seeing it as not only a celebration of his work but also of hip-hop’s impact on music culture globally.
A more solemn tribute may take place to honor former One Direction member Liam Payne, who tragically passed away last month in Argentina. While unconfirmed, reports suggest that producers are working to include a tribute during the show, reflecting Payne’s immense popularity and contributions to the EMAs. Payne had a remarkable career at the EMAs, winning 12 awards with One Direction and later launching his solo career on the very same stage in 2017. If the tribute goes forward, it will likely be led by Rita Ora, who shared a close friendship and a 2018 duet with Payne titled “For You.” Recently, Ora paid tribute to him on stage in Japan, making the potential moment at the EMAs even more heartfelt.
The EMAs wouldn’t be complete without their signature, over-the-top surprises. Past ceremonies have delivered unforgettable moments, from Stormzy’s police car arrival in 2017 to Britney Spears’s dramatic entrance in 1999. This year promises more memorable entrances, and with performers such as Mendes, Peso Pluma, and Teddy Swims on stage, fans can expect boundary-pushing sets and elaborate props.
Also joining the ranks of nominees is Tanzanian star Diamond Platnumz, who is up for the “Best African Act” award, competing against Asake, Tyla, and others. His nomination highlights the global appeal of the EMAs, as artists from Africa and beyond make their mark in the international music scene.
As anticipation builds for the EMAs, fans worldwide are ready for what’s certain to be an evening packed with entertainment, emotional tributes, and record-breaking achievements. With a lineup featuring a diverse array of performers, historic nominations, and a few likely surprises, the night promises to be memorable for both the stars and their fans.
