From Moonmen to Milestones: R&B Moments That Shaped the VMAs
R&B Moments That Defined the VMAs (And 7 Artists Still Deserve Their Flowers)
At their best, the VMAs have always been coronations, moments where promising artists crossed into undeniable stardom. TLC captivated the world with “No Scrubs” in 1999 cemented them as one of the best selling female groups in history with their futuristic R&B, blending coolness with innovation. Usher followed in 2002 with “I Need A Girl”, a masterclass in charisma and choreography that secured his place as a generational entertainer for years to come which he gave an unforgettable performance of “Confessions Part II” in 2004.
The 2003 VMAs belonged to Beyoncé. Suspended from the rafters and backed by a crew of dancers, she lit up Radio City Music Hall with a dazzling “Baby Boy,” then sent the crowd into frenzy when Jay-Z popped out for “Crazy in Love.” It was a coronation moment—Queen Bey had officially arrived. In 2019, H.E.R. used the VMA stage to showcase raw artistry with a minimalist set that reminded viewers what soul really sounds like. Normani also turned the 2019 VMAs into her personal playground. Performing “Motivation,” she mixed throwback MTV-era vibes with modern-day precision, giving fans a viral performance that instantly became a cultural reset.
And by 2021, SZA’s charismatic presence alongside Doja Cat proved that she had fully evolved from an alt-R&B favorite into one of the defining voices of her generation. Each of these moments wasn’t just entertainment—they were cultural touchstones. However, Janet Jackson’s 2009 VMA tribute was a masterclass in love and legacy. Each move, each note, each glance was a nod to her brother Michael, reminding everyone why the Jackson family continues to define pop culture.
However these moments stole the show and are still topics in the group chat until this very day…
Whitney Houston (1986) – She danced across the stage with a radiant ease, blending “How Will I Know” and “Greatest Love of All” into pure magic. That night, Whitney didn’t just perform—she captivated. It was the moment the world understood why she would forever be known as The Voice.
Janet Jackson (1993) – When Janet Jackson stepped into “That’s The Way Love Goes / If,” time stopped. The flawless transitions, the daring choreography, the unapologetic presence—it was Janet proving, once again, that the VMAs weren’t just about music videos. They were about history being made live on stage.
Sisqo (2000) – Nobody knew what to expect when Sisqó hit the 2000 VMA stage, but he left with one of the night’s most talked-about sets. Balancing vulnerability on “Incomplete” with pure spectacle on “Thong Song,” the Dru Hill frontman proved he was both lover and wild card. By the end, with slides, dancers, and energy only Sisqó could deliver.
Destiny’s Child (2000) – Destiny’s Child took the stage (even as presenters) in fierce coordination, delivering a commanding acapella rendition of “Say My Name” that left the crowd in awe. Every note was tight, every harmony sharp, and their presence reminded everyone why they were—and still are—staples in music history.
Alicia Keys (2001) – There’s performing, and then there’s Alicia Keys performing “Fallin’.” From her flawless vocals to her mesmerizing piano mastery, every movement of her fingers seemed to slow time. Pure talent. Pure soul. Purely magnetic. The stage—and every eye in the room—was hers.
Beyoncé (2014) – A 15-minute masterpiece from Beyoncé. From Crazy in Love to Drunk in Love, she didn’t just perform—she revisited her entire career in one epic sitting. Every move, every note, every look felt meticulously crafted to remind the world why Queen Bey reigns supreme. History wasn’t just made; it was etched in real time.
The Weeknd (2015) – The VMAs have seen their share of breakout performances, but The Weeknd’s “Can’t Feel My Face” set a new bar. Abel Tesfaye brought the swagger, the vocals, and a club-like atmosphere that had the audience moving—cementing his rise from cult favorite to global phenomenon.
From Harlem to Hollywood, from quiet whispers to chart-topping anthems, the VMAs have always been where legends ignite. Alicia Keys tickled the ivories on her way to 15 Grammys; Usher, Aaliyah, and SZA went from promising acts to names everyone knew. Beyond the lights and cameras, the VMAs stage became a gateway to greatness.
But history feels incomplete and at times we are reminded with missed opportunities. There were voices that defined eras, filled playlists, and influenced generations. MTV may have built the soundtrack—but the recognition? That story is still waiting to be told for some artists that helped build the powerhouse. Until it is, the celebration remains unfinished.