Missy Elliott Receives 2019 MTV Video Vanguard Award, Performs Classic Hits

On Monday, Missy Elliott returned to the MTV VMAs stage to receive the 2019 Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award—an honour reserved for some of the most influential artists of our time.

In an official statement by Bruce Gillmer, co-brand head of MTV International, “Missy’s impact on the music landscape is indelible… Her creative vision across production, performance and songwriting is unmatched.”

Introduced by Cardi B, who praised her efforts, dubbing her a “living legend,” a humble Elliott took centre-stage and reminisced on her storied career.

“This Michael Jackson video vanguard award means so much to me,” said the four-time Grammy-Award winner. “I have worked diligently for over two decades. And I never thought that I would be standing up here receiving this award. So it means so much to me. I promise you it doesn’t go unnoticed that the support and love that y’all shown me over the years.”

“And lastly, I wanna dedicate this award to the dance community all around the world,” she said. “Because when y’all get on the stage with these artists, y’all are not just props. Y’all are the icing on the cake. Y’all are the beat to the heart […]”

Elliott is officially the first female rapper and fourth hip-hop act to receive the Video Vanguard Award, joining a prestigious list that includes names like Madonna, Beyoncé, Kanye West, Rihanna, Britney Spears, and Janet Jackson.

Leaving the audience void of doubts, Elliott proved to the world that’s she still got it, performing her new single “Throw It Back,” followed by medley of her greatest hits, such as “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly),” “Get Ur Freak On,” “Work It,” “Pass That Dutch,” and “Lose Control.” It marked her first VMAs performance in over a decade.

Watch her electrifying performance at the 2019 MTV VMAs below: