MTV VMAs 2016: Controversial Beyoncé song 'Formation' wins Video of the Year
The singer released the politically-charged video - taken from album Lemonade - in February
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Beyoncé emerged victorious at this year's VMA awards after being handed the coveted award for MTV's Video of the Year.
The singer's politically-charged music video for track "Formation" took away the prize in a ceremony which saw her perform a grandstanding performance of 16 minutes.
Upon accepting the award, Beyoncé said in reference to the video's shoot: “I dedicate this award to the people of New Orleans. God bless you guys."
Her competition in the category included "Hotline Bling" by Drake - one of the years biggest songs - and Kanye West's "Famous" which caused controversy all of its own through the depiction of a naked woman whom resembled Taylor Swift.
Earlier on in the ceremony, Beyoncé took to the stage for a full 16 minutes to perform tracks from surprise album Lemonade, including "Pray You Catch Me" and "Hold Up."
The video for "Formation" received a severe backlash upon its release back in February after many claimed it was a veiled attack on law enforcement.
Rapper Kanye West - who famously interrupted Taylor Swift's acceptance speech when the singer accepted the Video fo the year award in 2013 - was given free reign by MTV to do whatever he wanted at the ceremony; he chose the moment to release a new video for Life of Pablo album track "Fade."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments