Mariah Carey won her first MTV Video Music Award on Sunday night (September 7) after decades of nominations and iconic performances, then doubled her by winning the Ariana Grande’s Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.
The 56-year-old legend brought the Lunaman trophy home to earn the best R&B video of her sultry single “Type Danking,” marking a long-term expiration victory after the first eight nominations. But it was Vanguard’s honor that brought Carey the whole night, who had been several memorable VMA moments for years.
“Thanks a lot to MTV for giving me the Vanguard Award. I can’t believe I won my first VMA tonight.” “I only have one question: What are you waiting for? I’m kidding. I love you.”
Carey, known for her vocals and film music videos, recalls her past appearances at VMA, including the same awards to LL Cool J in 1997 and opened with Whitney Houston in 1998.
“There are amazing memories here, just like when I presented LL Cool J to his Pioneer Award. It’s a moment,” Mariah Carey said.
She also reviews the creative freedom videos of music videos over the years, from the “My Heartbreaker” in 1999 to the fantasy escape from “Honey” in 1997.
“Music videos are my lifestyle, bringing music into my own life. Many movies can imagine all of this fantasy. Honestly, sometimes there is an excuse to bring the drama and do things I wouldn’t do in real life.” “Well, that’s really not much, but you know, it happens anyway.”
Before accepting her award, Carey lighted up the stage with her biggest hits (including “Fantasy,” “Obsession,” “We Belong to Us” and her latest single “Sugar Sweet.”
The Grammy Award winner expressed her gratitude to her devoted supporter, affectionately known as the lambily supporter.
“After all, I understand the development of music, the development of video, but the eternal fun. Thank you, MTV plays my videos, and my fans, I love you so much.”
Carey’s next studio album, All All, is scheduled to be screened on September 26.