At the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) 2024 in Manchester, host Rita Ora delivered an emotional tribute to her late friend and collaborator, Liam Payne, just weeks after his passing. Ora, who collaborated with Payne on their 2018 hit “For You,” paid homage to the former One Direction star, calling him “one of the kindest people” she had known. This heartfelt moment added a poignant contrast to an otherwise high-energy event.
Rita Ora Honors Liam Payne’s Legacy
Dressed in a solemn dark suit, Ora’s tribute to Payne brought an intimate and touching pause to the night. “He was a big part of the MTV world and my world,” she shared, with her voice faltering. Remembering Payne’s generosity and warmth, Ora reflected on his impact: “He brought so much joy to every room he walked into, and he left such a mark on this world.” The tribute concluded with a short video featuring photos of Payne and a snippet of One Direction’s hit “Night Changes.”
Taylor Swift Makes History with Four Wins
While Ora’s tribute struck an emotional chord, the night was also a historic one for Taylor Swift, who became the first artist to win Best Artist three times in the 30-year history of the EMAs. Swift added three more awards to her collection—Best Video for “Fortnight” with Post Malone, Best Live Act, and Best US Artist. Swift, who couldn’t attend the event due to her ongoing Eras Tour, thanked her fans and collaborators in a video message, expressing her gratitude for the recognition.
Other Major Winners
In addition to Swift’s record-breaking achievements, the night saw a range of notable winners across various categories. Rising star Sabrina Carpenter took home Best Song for her hit “Espresso,” while Raye won Best UK and Ireland Act, marking her continued rise in the industry. Benson Boone captured the title of Best New Artist with a powerful piano performance that opened the show. Tyla, representing the R&B genre, won both Best R&B and Best Afrobeats, cementing her place as a global sensation.
Showstopping Performances and Appearances
The night was filled with memorable performances, including Shawn Mendes, Teddy Swims, and Benson Boone. Legendary Manchester band Happy Mondays made an appearance, with Shaun Ryder and Bez offering a lively and unpredictable interview with Ora. The iconic Pet Shop Boys were honored as Pop Pioneers, while US rapper Busta Rhymes received the Global Icon Award, reflecting on his early years in Morecambe, England, where he spent childhood summers with family.
A Celebration of Manchester’s Musical Heritage
The Manchester-hosted EMAs paid homage to the city’s rich musical culture. The ceremony opened with New Order’s “Blue Monday” and incorporated the iconic black-and-yellow motif of the former Hacienda nightclub. Fans were treated to a sing-along of Oasis’s “Wonderwall,” led by Ora in the absence of Liam Gallagher, who won Best Rock but did not attend.
Complete List of Winners at MTV EMAs 2024
- Best Artist – Taylor Swift
- Best Song – Sabrina Carpenter, “Espresso”
- Best Video – Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone, “Fortnight”
- Best Collaboration – Lisa ft. Rosalía, “New Woman”
- Best UK and Ireland Act – Raye
- Best US Artist – Taylor Swift
- Best Live Act – Taylor Swift
- Best Pop – Ariana Grande
- Best Hip-Hop – Eminem
- Best K-pop – Jimin
- Best Rock – Liam Gallagher
- Best Alternative – Imagine Dragons
- Best Electronic – Calvin Harris
- Best R&B – Tyla
- Best Afrobeats – Tyla
- Best Latin – Peso Pluma
- Best New Artist – Benson Boone
- Best Push – Le Sserafim
- Biggest Fans – Lisa
- Global Icon – Busta Rhymes
- Pop Pioneers – Pet Shop Boys
Conclusion
This year’s MTV EMAs were a night of heartfelt tributes, record-breaking wins, and vibrant celebrations of music. As Rita Ora poignantly remembered Liam Payne and Taylor Swift solidified her place in EMA history, the event offered fans an unforgettable evening that celebrated both musical legends and rising stars alike.
