Thursday, August 19, 2021
MTV has announced the first slate of performers for the
2021 VMAs; scheduled to command the stage at
Barclays Center on 9/12 are
Olivia Rodrigo,
Lil Nas X,
Camila Cabello,
Machine Gun Kelly and
Lorde.
Rodrigo's first VMA showing will be only her fourth televised performance ever, following her debut on
Fallon and
her appearances on
SNL and at
The BRITs.
Lil Nas X returns to the VMA stage for the first time since 2019, when he performed "Panini." Cabello is set to assay her salsa-inspired single "Don't Go Yet."
MGK will mark his first time on the main show, where he will deliver a live version of "papercuts"; last year he was part of the the pre-show, launching "my ex's best friend" to new heights.
Also joining the MTV party: Lorde, whose album
Solar Power is out Friday, 8/20.
More TBA. Rumors that
ViacomCBS Prez
Bruce Gillmer is playing the spoons on the pre-show could not be confirmed at press time.