At the Video Awards 2022 (VMAs), Californian “comeback rockers” Red Hot Chili Peppers received MTV’s “Global Icon” lifetime achievement special award.
RHCP dedicated this in turn to the late Foo Fighters drummer, Taylor Hawkins, after their live performance at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
The Peppers performed “Black Summer” and “Can’t Stop” and dutifully accepted the “Global” trophy. When drummer Chad Smith then grabbed the microphone, there was an authentic-looking posthumous eulogy:
“There’s another musical icon, a truly global force. I’m speaking of my brother in spirit, Taylor Hawkins. I would like to dedicate this trophy to Taylor and his family! I miss him every day: Fly on Hawk, fly on brother,” Smith said.
Hawkins passed away March 22 while the Foo Fighters were on tour in the Colombian capital of Bogota. He was only 50 years old. In September 2022, Hawkins will be given a fitting farewell at two special memorial concerts in London and Los Angeles.
Before that, singer Anthony Kiedis thanked his bandmates – almost internally – for their almost 40-year journey through life, art and rock’n’roll.
In the overall tableau of the VAMs, Jack Harlow, Lil Nas X and Kendrick Lamar led the evening’s competition with seven nominations each. Rap styler Doja Cat and Harry Styles followed with six nominations each. Italy’s ESC clearer Måneskin was on the live stage, Panic continued! At The Disco and of course the RHCP. Jack Harlow opened the colorful dance with a glamor performance of “First Class” with song partner Fergie.
K-pop all-girl band Blackpink made their debut appearance at an MTV break with their song “Pink Venom.” The rapping dream duo Eminem and Snoop Dogg were celebrated with thunderous cheers. They put the abbreviated track “From The D 2 The LBC” on the boards with a bang.
Here is our excerpt from the list of winners, which of course also depends on which stars appear in person on the evening of the ceremony. This is standard industry practice – and should by no means be concealed at this point:
Best video of the year
Taylor Swift – All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)
Best Newcomer
DoveCameron
Best Rock Video
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Black Summer
Artist of the Year
bad bunny
Hit of the summer 2022
Jack Harlow—First Class
Best Hip Hop Track
Nicki Minaj, featuring Lil Baby – Do We Have a Problem?
Best K-Pop Track
Lisa – Lalisa
album of the year
Harry Styles – Harry’s House
Best Video (Long Format)
WINNER: Taylor Swift – All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version)
Best cooperation
Lil Nas X & Jack Harlow – Industry Baby