“Video of the Year” is the most prestigious category at the upcoming MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), taking place on Sunday, August 28, 2011 at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles. This award is typically handed out at the conclusion of the ceremony.
Previous Recipients
In previous years, this honor has gone to some of the greatest videos by the biggest names in pop music such as Sinead O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U,” Britney Spears’ “Piece of Me,” Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” Beyonce’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” Madonna’s “Ray of Light,” and Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance.”
2011 “Video of the Year” Nominees
In this year’s category, five musical acts are nominated including Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep,” Beastie Boys for “Make Some Noise,” Bruno Mars’ “Grenade,” Katy Perry’s “Firework,” and Tyler, the Creator for “Yonkers.”
Analysis and Predictions
It is great to see the hip hop trio Beastie Boys garnering a deserving nomination for their latest video “Make Some Noise.” It showcases their longevity in the music industry and their ability to reinvent themselves and appeal to a new generation of fans.
Tyler, the Creator received two nominations at this year’s MTV VMAs, for “Best New Artist” and “Video of the Year.” At only 20 years old, this is quite an accomplishment! His best chances for a win are in the “New Artist” category, since he is too lightweight here, especially with bigger names in the mix. Nevertheless, the nod is a reward in itself.
This category is a three-horse race between Adele, Bruno Mars and Katy Perry.
Although Adele’s song is a stunning and dynamic vocal performance, its music video is not as exciting, especially since the entire time Adele is sitting in a chair belting out her tune in an abandoned house.
Bruno Mars’ video for “Grenade” is exquisite; however it has greater chances of winning in the “Best Male Video” race.
Katy Perry’s “Firework” has all the necessary ingredients to capture the coveted moonman trophy. It’s well-crafted from start-to-finish, it carries an empowering message, and pop listeners can relate to it, in the same fashion that country fans can relate to Miranda Lambert’s “The House That Built Me.” Besides, Perry is as beautiful as ever in the video, which will definitely help her garner additional fan votes.
Particularly puzzling is the fact that Lady Gaga failed to receive a nomination in this category, especially since she took home the “Video of the Year” award last year, while accepting it in her outrageous meat dress.
The Verdict
With ten VMA nominations this year, Katy Perry is the odds-on favorite to win the “Video the Year” award. It’ll be very deserving after a stellar year in music. The only possible spoiler would be Bruno Mars’ “Grenade.”
For more information on the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, check out their official website.
Markos Papadatos - Markos Papadatos holds over six years journalism experience, authoring over 700 articles, many of which are feature profile interviews.
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