Taylor Swift Wins 7 VMAs, Ties Beyoncé for All-Time Record

At the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, pop sensation Taylor Swift made history by tying with Beyoncé for the most lifetime wins in the event’s 40-year history, securing seven awards on the night. Swift took home the top honor, Video of the Year, for her haunting, black-and-white video “Fortnight,” which features Post Malone. The video, set in a desolate psychiatric hospital, reflected Swift’s emotions during the creation of her album “The Tortured Poets Department.”

During her acceptance speech, Swift shared that while the video may seem somber, it was a joy to make. She also gave a special thanks to her boyfriend, NFL player Travis Kelce, who supported her during filming. “Everything he touches brings joy, fun, and magic,” Swift said. She also encouraged her fans to vote in the upcoming U.S. presidential election, although she refrained from mentioning her endorsement of Kamala Harris, which she had made on Instagram earlier.

By the end of the night, Swift’s career VMA total had risen to 30, matching Beyoncé’s record. Her additional awards included Artist of the Year and Song of the Summer. Notably, this marked Swift’s third consecutive Video of the Year win, following her successes with “All Too Well” in 2022 and “Anti-Hero” in 2023.

During the event, Swift praised Post Malone as “ridiculously talented” when their collaboration won Best Collaboration, while Malone returned the compliment, describing her as “one of the kindest and most talented people” he’s ever met.

Other notable moments from the night included Chappell Roan being named Best New Artist and dedicating her award to drag performers and the LGBTQ+ community. Lisa from Blackpink won Best K-pop Video, Tyla took home the Afrobeats award for “Water,” and Anitta won Best Latin Video for “Mil Veces.”

The event, filled with iconic performances and moments, also featured an opening by rapper Eminem performing “Houdini” and Katy Perry receiving the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, which was presented to her by her husband, actor Orlando Bloom.