Shakira Becomes First South American Artist to Receive MTV’s Video Vanguard Award

Shakira has become the first South American artist to receive MTV’s Video Vanguard Award.

Wyclef Jean presented the four-time VMAs winner with the honor Tuesday night, calling her a “musical genius.”

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As she took the stage, she first thanked MTV “for being such a big part of my career since I was only 18 years old.”

She continued, “I want to thank people who have played a key role in my visual history. Friends, very dear friends, and creative partners, who I simply can’t live without.” She also showed appreciation for her label “for always supporting my vision,” and the “amazing women who work with me,” who “always help me to push through all my challenges while wearing so many hats.”

Shakira went on to share the love for her parents and children for “cheering me up and for making me feel that mama can do it all.” She concluded by saying she wants to “share this award with my fans” who “always support me through thick and thin. Thank you so much for being my army and helping me fight all my battles”

Prior to accepting the honor, the singer also took to the stage for an epic 10-minute performance featuring a medley of her greatest hits, including “Whenever, Wherever,” “Hips Don’t Lie” and more. The set not only saw the audience on their feet dancing along, but Shakira also crowd surfed at one point.

This year, Shakira scored four nominations at the VMAs, including best collaboration, best Latin (two noms in the category) and artist of the year. She took home her first Moon Person trophy in 2000 for international viewer’s choice award.

Throughout her career, Shakira has continued to break music records. This year alone, she became the first female singer to debut in the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 with a Spanish-language track with “BZRP Music Sessions Vol. 53″ and then with “TQG” a month later. She also made history in the Top 3 spots on the Billboard Latin Pop Airplay Chart.

“Shakira is a true global force who continues to inspire and influence the masses with her unique, musical prowess.  She’s a trailblazer for women around the world & one of the first artists to lead the globalization of Latin music,” Bruce Gillmer, president of music, music talent, programming and events, paramount and chief content officer, music, Paramount+, previously said. “Her massive impact across the musical landscape will be long lasting as she continues to create and entertain at the highest level.”

Previous Video Vanguard Award recipients include Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Madonna, Janet Jackson, LL Cool J, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Justin Timberlake and Missy Elliott. David Bowie, The Beatles and director Richard Lester shared the honor at the first VMAs in 1984.

The 2023 VMAs aired live from New Jersey’s Prudential Center on Tuesday. Check out the complete winner’s list here.

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