From Madonna’s opener to the George Michael tribute: the VMAs 2026 performances
Madonna returned to the VMAs stage after 23 years; Kacey Musgraves honored Dolly Parton and Raye made her VMAs debut.
Madonna opened the night with “Bring Your Love” and a “Danceteria” remix alongside Sabrina Carpenter and Charli xcx. It was her first VMAs performance in 23 years and a record fifth time opening the show. Julia Garner, Sombr and Seth Rogen made cameos.
The George Michael tribute brought together Sombr (“Faith” and “Father Figure”), Raye (“I Knew You Were Waiting”), Teddy Swims (“Careless Whisper”) and a surprise Adam Lambert, who closed with “Freedom! ’90”. Kacey Musgraves sang “I Will Always Love You” for Dolly Parton.
LISA debuted “SaWaDiKa” on TV, Raye made her VMAs performance debut, Shaboozey shared the stage with Gunna and Sienna Spiro sang on the night she won Best New Artist. Gener8ion and Yung Lean closed the show. Bruno Mars appeared in footage filmed at a tour stop.
