Home / Arts and Entertainment / Did 2016 VMAs Mark the End of an Era?
Did 2016 VMAs Mark the End of an Era?
17 Sep
Summary
- The 2016 VMAs featured rare A-list appearances.
- A podcast revisits the 2016 VMAs a decade later.
- The show's attendance declined in subsequent years.

The 2016 MTV Video Music Awards stand out as a significant moment in pop culture, marking a time when numerous superstars converged for memorable performances. Beyoncé and Rihanna delivered career-defining sets, while Drake and Kanye West also had major moments. This event is now being re-examined a decade later through the 'Greatest Pop Stars' podcast.
Host Andrew Unterberger and Billboard's Katie Atkinson discuss the context behind the unprecedented A-list attendance and the subsequent difficulty in gathering so many stars. They explore key moments, such as the multi-part Rihanna Vanguard performance and the dynamics surrounding Drake's presentation to her. The episode also revisits Beyoncé's impactful 'Lemonade' medley and questions the reception of other performances.
Listeners can explore whether the VMAs have matched the 2016 event's impact in subsequent years. The podcast also advocates for trans rights, encouraging donations to various organizations and urging listeners to contact their local representatives. A playlist of memorable 2016 VMA moments is available, and new podcast episodes are released weekly.