The MTV Video Vanguard award, also known at the Michael Jackson Vanguard Award, is an achievement that is handed out to music artists who have made great achievements over their career in the music industry. Since 1984, many incredible musicians and video directors have received this award because of their ability to create stirring videos and music that capture, and retain, fans for years to come.
It was just announced that singer Beyonce would be this year’s Video Vanguard winner. The singer also has other nominations in place for the MTV Video Music Awards in eight categories. On August 24, she will be presented with the award when the ceremony airs, and she will also perform for the fans in the audience.
Over the years, many winners have been named for this award, and it has also been given out by other names, including the Lifetime Achievement Award. In honor of the amazing artists who have come far in the industry, we are counting down the top ten winners of the MTV Video Vanguard Award.
Photo credit: INFphoto.com
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10. Beastie Boys
In 1999, the band Beastie Boys were given the award for their work in music, presented by rapper Chuck D. He gave the band praise before they came on stage to receive the award. Late singer Adam Yauch gave thanks before making some political statements on his views of military tactics used against the Middle East.
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9. Guns N’ Roses
Two of the members of the band Queen presented the 1992 Vanguard award to Guns N’ Roses. They introduced the band through their achievements, including their award for best new artist at MTV’s Video Music awards in 1988.
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8. Madonna
Madonna has been known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to the controversial nature of her music videos. She was given the award in 1986 for her contributions to music.
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7. George Michael
In 1989, George Michael received the Vanguard award, which was presented to him by Madonna. In a video that was aired before he was given the award, Michael spoke about how important videos were in addition to the songs that are put out to the fans.
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6. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s video for his song “Thriller” was influential in the art of using videos to tell a story. He was presented the Vanguard award in 1988 by Peter Gabriel.
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5. Justin Timberlake
In 2013, Justin Timberlake received the award by presenter, Jimmy Fallon. He thanked everyone for the award, including the video directors he has worked with in the past.
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4. Britney Spears
Britney Spears received the award in 2011 for her contributions to pop music and a choreographed routine of her hits was performed before she accepted the award, and an almost kiss with Lady Gaga.
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3. Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson received the Vanguard Award for her contributions to music, as well as using her performances to put out a message to young fans, especially girls, who listened to her music.
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2. Tom Petty
In 1994, singer Billy Corgan presented the Video Vanguard award to singer Tom Petty. After the award was given, he performed with band Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers.
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1. Mark Romanek
Mark Romanek is a filmmaker who has worked on many projects and music videos, including with Michael Jackson for his music video for “Scream” and with Madonna for “Bedtime Story.” He also directed videos for Johnny Cash with “Hurt,” Nine Inch Nails with “Closer,” and Fiona Apple for “Criminal.”