Rita Ora hosted this year’s MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) in Manchester and paid tribute to Liam Payne, who recently passed away. Ora collaborated with Payne on their hit single For You in 2018, and she fondly remembered him as one of the kindest people she knew. The emotional tribute was delivered at a poignant moment during the ceremony, which was otherwise upbeat. This year’s EMAs saw Taylor Swift make history by becoming the first person to win best artist three times in the event’s 30-year history. Other winners included Raye, Sabrina Carpenter, Tyla and Benson Boone. The ceremony was the first time the event was held in the UK since 2017, with Ora hosting for the third time.
During the show, Ora took a moment to remember Liam Payne, describing him as a dear friend who had a big heart and brought joy to every room he entered. She highlighted his kindness and the positive impact he had on everyone around him. A video featuring photos of Payne and a snippet of One Direction’s song Night Changes was played in his memory. Taylor Swift, who was unable to attend the event, won four awards – best artist, video for Fortnight, live act, and US artist. In her acceptance speech, she expressed her gratitude to her fans and collaborators and mentioned her enjoyment of touring in Europe over the summer.
Sabrina Carpenter won the award for best song with Espresso, but she was also absent as she was performing on her Short n’ Sweet tour in San Diego. Raye, who won best UK and Ireland act, was present at the ceremony and also performed two songs. US singer-songwriter Benson Boone, who won best new artist, opened the show by playing the piano while suspended above the crowd at the Co-op Live arena. He expressed his surprise at winning the award and shared his journey of finding his voice and passion in music.
South African star Tyla won awards for best R&B, best Afrobeats, and best African artist, expressing her honor and humility in receiving the accolades. The ceremony featured performances by Shawn Mendes, Teddy Swims, and the Pet Shop Boys, with US rapper Busta Rhymes receiving the global icon award. Rhymes shared his excitement and gratitude for the recognition, reminiscing about his childhood experiences in Morecambe, where he lived with his aunt. Liam Gallagher of Oasis was the only Mancunian winner, taking home the award for best rock act. Despite his absence, Rita Ora led the crowd in a sing-along of Oasis’ hit Wonderwall.
The ceremony paid homage to the host city of Manchester, with references to iconic bands like New Order and the Hacienda nightclub. Happy Mondays’ Shaun Ryder and Bez added some unpredictability to the show with an enthusiastic interview with Ora. The night’s presenters included singer Mabel and her mother Neneh Cherry, who was a winner at the first EMAs in 1994. The event showcased a mix of emotional tributes, historic wins, and energetic performances, making it a memorable night for both the artists and fans in attendance.
