MTV EMAs: Eight bits of gossip we uncovered on the night

The K-Pop group Le Sserafim had their first performance in the UK at the Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester.

On Sunday night, the MTV Awards made their debut in Manchester after 30 years, but oddly enough, the event didn't quite capture the city's unique vibe.

There was no indication of Take That, Aitch, or Liam Gallagher, despite him being awarded the title of best rock star.

The organizers incorporated some discreet references to the city: The stage featured a backdrop of black and yellow stripes reminiscent of Factory Records, and every time nominees were revealed, the iconic tune "Blue Monday" by New Order played through the speakers.

However, the event adopted a broader international viewpoint, showcasing performances from Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, and the United States. As expected, Taylor Swift won the evening's two most prestigious awards: best artist and video of the year.

She made an appearance via video call and opted to spend the evening watching her boyfriend, NFL player Travis Kelce, guide the Kansas City Chiefs to a win over the Denver Broncos.

There were many other celebrities at the event and on the red carpet. Here’s some of the buzz we gathered during the night.

Raye Updates On Her Missing Songbooks

Two weeks ago, Raye informed her fans that the release of her second album had been postponed because thieves stole her car, along with multiple notebooks filled with her lyrics and song concepts.

On the red carpet, she revealed that the police had been unable to locate them, stating, "I've just had to move on."

The singer mentioned that she wasn't able to reproduce many of her original concepts, as putting them into words allowed her mind to focus on new ideas.

You set it aside, believing you could return later, but now so many ideas have vanished. It’s a real disappointment.

However, the artist, who received the award for best UK performer, kept a hopeful perspective.

"Everything happens for a purpose. I may need to begin anew, and perhaps this is a hidden opportunity."

Busta Rhymes Shares His Surprising Comedy Idol

The choice to honor rap legend Busta Rhymes with a global icon award in Manchester wasn't as coincidental as it might seem.

Before he perfected his quick-paced rapping style, an 11-year-old Rhymes spent two summers at his Aunt Velma's house in Morecambe.

"I attended karate classes, and on the side, we snuck into nightclubs to earn some extra cash through break-dancing," he shared with us.

"I recall that Boy George was really popular, and so was Wham," he added.

"Our top choice has always been Benny Hill. Even now, he remains our favorite. I truly believe no one has matched his humor or charm."

Back in those carefree days of enjoying risqué comedies in Morecambe, did he ever imagine he would return to receive a lifetime achievement award?

"You can never predict something like that," he remarked. "When we initially got into hip-hop, we weren't motivated by any recognition. We simply did it out of passion and enjoyment."

"That said, tonight feels like a dream realized."

To celebrate that occasion, he delivered a nine-minute speech of gratitude, expressing thanks to everyone from his mother to an art instructor he encountered backstage.

"I've never received an award from MTV until now. After thirty-four years of making music professionally, it's amazing to finally be recognized by them."

Olly Alexander's Tips For Next Year's Eurovision Contestant

Olly Alexander performed at a pre-show party on Saturday night and was amazed by the audience's reaction to his song "Dizzy," which took 18th place in this year's Eurovision Song Contest.

"That went much smoother than it did at Eurovision," he chuckled, just before Jedward stormed the stage and created complete mayhem.

During the main event, Alexander presented the Song of the Year award to Sabrina Carpenter for her track "Espresso." He also took a moment to share some advice with those thinking about representing the UK in next year's competition.

He expressed, "I'd urge anyone involved to reach out to me. We can sit down and have an honest discussion about it." His eyes reflected a depth of experience, revealing the weight of what he's endured.

Benson Boone Gains A New Fan: Bez

Along with being named the best new artist, American singer Benson Boone kicked off the ceremony with an incredible performance. He wowed the audience by playing a grand piano while floating in mid-air, and then executed an impressive front flip off a platform next to the stage.

"The insurance is always a hassle," he chuckled, "but I really enjoy performing."

One individual who was absolutely shocked was Bez from the Happy Mondays. He approached Boone while she was being interviewed by Rita Ora.

"When you landed on that grand piano," he mentioned, "I thought to myself, 'Elton John is going to be really upset.'"

Le Sserafim Visits Manchester's Christmas Market

Manchester boasts the largest K-Pop store in the UK, and on Sunday morning, the employees were truly amazed that one of the most prominent girl groups in the genre had arrived in their city.

"One of them mentioned to me, 'Le Sserafim shared photos from the Christmas market.' I realized that's just a five-minute walk away!"

The five-member group, known for breaking records on the US charts, arrived for their debut performance in the UK, where they combined their hit "Chasing Lightning" with the 90s dance classic "Crazy."

However, they were even more thrilled to explore the city without being overwhelmed by crowds.

"It was amazing; we enjoyed baklava!" exclaimed singer Huh Yun-Jin, as her bandmate Sakura dug into some fish and chips.

"It was my initial experience," she remarked. "I absolutely enjoyed it."

During their performance at the EMAs, the band received one of the loudest cheers of the evening, even though they aren't very well-known in the UK... at least not yet.

"Visiting Europe has always been a dream for us, so this feels completely unreal," Yun-Jin expressed. "All we hope is to leave a positive impression."

Jedward Stuns For Two Hours On The Red Carpet

Out of the blue, Jedward launched an extensive campaign to win over the global media.

"Oasis is back, and so is Jedward!" they announced excitedly, then hurried over to confused German and French reporters while singing 'Stop Crying Your Heart Out.'

This continued for two wonderfully exciting hours, during which the twins, who rose to fame on The X Factor 15 years back, claimed that "many artists have drawn inspiration from Jedward."

To be fair, they have evidence to back this up. Recently, CMAT, who was nominated for the Mercury Prize, shared that the brothers motivated her to complete her second album by sending her an encouraging voice message.

"You need to consider this in life," John noted.

"Don't assume you're the center of attention all the time. Take the initiative to connect with others. Throw the tennis ball in their direction and observe their reaction."

"It's all about maintaining that excitement."

To be truthful, they were a total joy.

Liam Payne Tribute: A Perfectly Crafted Homage

View: Rita Ora gets teary-eyed while paying tribute to the star.

Liam Payne secured 12 MTV EMAs while he was part of One Direction. He also took the opportunity at the awards show to kick off his solo career, showcasing his worldwide success with the song "Strip That Down" during the 2017 event.

It was appropriate that the occasion commemorated his passing, but finding the right mood during such a large-scale entertainment event is always a challenge.

Ultimately, his friend and collaborator Rita Ora spoke sincerely and openly.

"We discussed numerous ways to pay tribute to him," she mentioned. "Yet, sometimes just voicing our thoughts is sufficient."

Looking straight into the camera, she reflected on her experiences with the 31-year-old, her voice trembling with emotion.

"Liam Payne was truly one of the most caring individuals I've ever met," she shared. "He filled every space with happiness whenever he entered. He made a lasting impact on this world."

It had a serious and subdued atmosphere, but it was filled with deep feelings. Ora wasn't the only one in tears.

Tyla Pays Tribute To Aaliyah

PA / Getty Images

South African sensation Tyla, who gained fame with her popular song "Water," took home the awards for both Best R&B and Best Afrobeats.

The awards reflected her ongoing rise, following her recognition as one of the BBC's Sounds of 2024. However, she took the time to pay tribute to those who have inspired her.

At the red carpet event, she dazzled in a classic Roberto Cavalli gown featuring a turquoise zebra pattern.

The identical dress was previously donned by American rapper Eve at the 2000 Soul Train Awards.

R&B icon Aaliyah donned a bright canary yellow outfit at the 2000 MTV Awards, where she took home the award for best female video for her song "Try Again."

The event occurred in September 2000, just under a year prior to the heartbreaking plane crash that claimed Aaliyah's life.

The vocalist was only 22 years old back then, which is the same age Tyla is today.