Janet Jackson headlined the VMAs with a special performance of “Scream” and dance tribute dedicated to her late brother Michael.
The 2009 MTV Video Music Awards kicked off the ceremony with a special tribute to the late King of Pop Michael Jackson, who is seen on the big screen in the video for “Scream” featuring baby sis Janet Jackson.
Kayne West steals the shine of country singer Taylor Swift during her acceptance speech for Best Female Video to let her know Beyoncé deserved it for “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).”
Lady Gaga’s theatrical performance of her smash “Paparazzi” was more disturbing than artistic, but her talent and swagger can’t be denied.
Actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler joins Sean “Diddy” Combs, who pretends to look perplexed when the mention of Kanye West’s name draws jeers.
Singer Ne-Yo and actor Chace Crawford introduce Beyoncé for her much-anticipated performance.
Beyoncé give the crowd what they want during a lively performance of “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).”
Lady Gaga accepts the award for Best New Artist from Eminem and Tracy Morgan.
Serena Williams introduces Pink, but not before sharing some self-deprecating humor about “crossing the line” in reference to her own outburst during a U.S. Open match over the weekend.
After winning the Moonman for Best Music Video for “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” Beyoncé invited Taylor Swift to complete her acceptance speech that Kanye West rudely interrupted.
Alicia Keys does her thing onstage during her performance of “Empire State of Mind” with Jay-Z.
The night’s finale performers, Jay-Z and Alicia Keys, kill it onstage with a tribute to the great city of New York.
Michael Jackson’s dad, Joe Jackson, attends the awards to witness the special tribute to his late son.
Beyoncé is fire-engine hot on the red carpet.
Jermaine Jackson is on hand to witness MTV’s Michael Jackson tribute featuring baby sis Janet Jackson.
Kanye West gives Papa Jackson some dap during the show.
Alicia Keys struts her stuff at the awards.
Singer Sean Paul looks “So Fine” and cool on the red carpet.
Kanye West holds on tight to his main squeeze Amber Rose on the red carpet.
“90210” hottie Tristan Wilds delivers urban-meets-schoolboy charm chic.
Sean “Diddy” Combs and Dirty Money group members Dawn Richardson, formerly of Making the Band’s disbanded Danity Kane, and songwriter Kaleena work the red carpet.
Singer Keri Hilson takes the deep plunge in this revealing number.
Singer Amerie, whose album drops in November, is stunting in her winged dress.
Cassie beams on the carpet.
Solange Knowles blossoms in this asymetric number which complements her short-cropped coif.
Singer Sean Kingston poses with a mini me of himself at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards red carpet.
Djimon Hounsou and Kimora Lee Simmons are smitten with one another and don’t have a problem showing it.
