MTV Video Music Awards Announces First Wave of 2026 Performers

MTV and CBS disclosed the first group of performers for the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on Thursday. The show will open with Madonna and include artists such as Lisa, Shaboozey, Raye, Sienna Spiro, GENER8ION, Gunna and Yung Lean.

Lisa will return to the VMA stage to debut her new single “SaWaDiKa” from the upcoming EP Press Play, following the recent release of her documentary "Always Lalisa" in Toronto. Raye, a two-time nominee this year, will appear for the first time, with her song “Where Is My Husband!” nominated for Song of the Year. Shaboozey will also make his VMA debut with the track “Cowgirl" and will perform alongside Gunna on their collaboration “High Noon.”

First-time nominee Sienna Spiro, up for Best New Artist, joins Shaboozey and Raye in debuting at the ceremony. GENER8ION and Yung Lean will present the world premiere of “Storm II," a video nominated for Video of the Year, Best Direction and Best Choreography.

The awards, hosted by Snoop Dogg, will be broadcast live from Los Angeles on September 27, marking the city’s first VMA hosting since 2017. Production is handled by Gunpowder & Sky, with Van Toffler as producer and a team of executive producers that includes Snoop Dogg, Sara Ramaker and Jasmin Ratansi. Additional performers, presenters and special guests are slated to be announced next week.