The MTV EMAs 2024 made a stunning debut in Manchester, blending iconic performances and heartfelt tributes.
- Co-op Live in Manchester hosted its first major televised event, amidst hopes of shifting global perceptions.
- Rita Ora led the event with a show inspired by Manchester’s rich musical legacy and included discussions with prominent stars.
- Spectacular performances included RAYE’s choir-backed set, Busta Rhymes’ powerful hits, and acrobatics accompanying Benson Boone.
- A solemn tribute to Liam Payne, delivered by Rita Ora, was a poignant moment of the evening.
The MTV EMAs 2024 marked its first-ever appearance in Manchester, setting the stage at Co-op Live. This venue, inaugurated earlier this year, had faced some public frustrations but aimed to redefine its image with this grand event. The programme saw Rita Ora, hosting for the third time, guiding the ceremony with grace and embracing Manchester’s musical roots.
The event featured impressive performances that left the audience in awe. RAYE, who clinched the Best UK & Ireland Act, delivered a stunning performance supported by a 30-member choir and a 13-piece band, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Meanwhile, Busta Rhymes delivered a thrilling set, showcasing his bass-driven hits that resonated with fans both present and viewers at home. Benson Boone added a touch of elegance with a performance featuring levitating pianos and aerial acrobatics.
Rita Ora’s hosting was not just about entertainment; it included meaningful conversations with industry icons like Happy Mondays’ Shaun and Bez, offering insights into the music scene. The show was a blend of past and present, celebrating Manchester’s influence on music culture.
An emotional tribute to the late Liam Payne added a somber yet heartfelt dimension to the night. Rita Ora, visibly moved, honoured her friend, remembering his kindness and the joy he brought to those around him. Her words, “He had the biggest heart,” resonated deeply with the audience, creating a shared moment of reflection.
The Pet Shop Boys closed the event on a high note. As the first-ever recipients of the MTV EMA Pop Pioneer award, their performance with the Manchester Camerata was highly anticipated. Their renditions of David Bowie’s ‘All The Young Dudes’ and their own classic ‘West End Girls’ celebrated the enduring impact of their music.
The MTV EMAs 2024 in Manchester brilliantly combined entertainment with respectful nods to music history and heartfelt remembrances, leaving a lasting impression.
