We went to the MTV EMAs in Manchester and this is what went down

This year’s MTV Europe Music Awards (EMA) were hosted by singer Rita Ora at the Manchester Co-op Academy last Sunday night. This marks the first time Manchester, known for its vibrant and alternative music scene, has hosted the event. A friend and I managed to get front row standing tickets to the show, allowing us to get an up-close view of all the singers and dancers who owned the night. 

The show was broadcast live to more than 150 countries around the world, and gave Manchester a chance to get some recognition for being a top spot for music in the UK.

Manchester plans to have several big artists in its arenas in the upcoming months, like Charli XCX, Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter, which will bring further revenue for the city.  

Rita Ora also gave a touching tribute to One Direction singer Liam Payne who sadly died a few weeks ago, saying he was “one of the kindest people I knew. He had the biggest heart and was always the first person to offer help in any way that he could”.  

Whilst an entertaining and lively night, I definitely think there could have been more famous guests as MTV EMA’s certainly teased a lot more than they actually gave. And regarding the queues at the venue? Well, I think these could do with a few more dress rehersals.

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We went so you didn’t have to, so here is our run down of the night and all its winners.

1.  Best UK and Ireland Act  

Winner – RAYE 

Three times Grammy nominated artist RAYE has taken over the UK music industry in the past few years with her most notable hits being Escapism and Decline. On Sunday her beautifully combined mashup of Escapism, Oscar Winning Tears and Body Dysmorphia showcased her vocals and gave anyone who hasn’t already heard of her a taste of what her music is about.

Raye was a personal favourite of mine, as her ability to improve upon every performance marks her as a professional and skilled artist who will certainly go on to win a Grammy in the future. 

2. Best New

Winner – Benson Boone  

Kicking off the show was an energetic and lively performance from Boone, even starting on a suspended golden piano. He was presented with his award by Manchester City footballers Ruben Dias and Alex Greenwood, thanking his management and fans.

His medley of the songs Slow It Down and Beautiful Things have both been extremely popular on TikTok and Instagram. The wait was certainly worth it after the new Co-op arena seemed to have some teething issues regarding the queues. 

3. Best R&B, Best Afrobeats, and Best African Act  

Winner – Tyla  

South African singer Tyla ruled the MTV EMAs red carpet, wearing a Robert Cavalli dress which was also worn by singer Aaliyah at the award show back in 2000. Tyla said during the show that “Aaliyah is one of my idols” after winning an astounding three awards: Best Afrobeats, Best African Act and Best R&B.  

The red carpet was an option that didn’t seem easily accessible to normal fans though, only being available to VIPs.

4. Best Artist, Best Music Video, Best Live, Best US Act  

Winner – Taylor Swift  

Taking the world by storm for the past three decades has been Miss Swift who has been performing across the globe on her Eras tour for the past year or so. This is the third time she has won this award, beating Shawn Mendes who also picked up an award at this year’s show for being the best Canadian artist.

Taylor was unable to attend the event, but gave a heartfelt speech saying “thank you to the fans for voting on this.” She said: “You’re the reason any great thing happens to me and I know it every single day.”

Taylor’s missed appearance left many fans around us disappointed, with many believing she’d make a special appearance after the MTV EMAs posted a few teasers on Instagram.

5. Best Push

Winner – Le Sserafim  

K-Pop girl band Le Sserafim debuted with a phenomenal performance of Chasing Lightning and Crazy. The girls told Dispatch that winning Best Push was “beyond our imagination”, and they certainly left fans impressed with their perfected choreography. 

6. Best Pop 

Winner – Ariana Grande  

Pop queen Ariana Grande won against other huge artists like Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa and Charli XCX, having released her pop album Eternal Sunshine earlier this year. Her lack of nominations at the Grammys however has raised some controversy, as fans have complained that this isn’t the first time the Into You singer hasn’t received many nominations.  

Other performances included Heart of Gold by Shawn Mendes, as well as a medley of The Door/Lose Control by new artist Teddy Swims. First time MTV EMAs winner Busta Rhymes also gave a lively performance with a number of dancers. The night ended with a performance from the Pet Shop Boys, who have been in the industry for 40 years.