So far, Katy Perry’s music videos behind new album 143 have been offensive and potentially ecologically damaging. But the VMAs also think they’re the work of a vanguard. Katy Perry will be honored with the Video Vanguard Award at this year’s ceremony. Now, anyone who’s seen the “Last Friday Night†video knows Perry is skilled in the music-visual arts. But while this is coming at the best time for her, it’s the worst time for the VMAs. Perry will be counting on a well-timed TV medley to save her rollout for 143, which comes out just nine days after the Video Music Awards. MTV, though, is probably a little nervous about Perry’s ability to carry its Wednesday-night broadcast mid-flop. Its press release didn’t even mention “Woman’s Worldâ€!
Perry joins a list of performers including Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan, while her new-old friend Taylor Swift comes in as the night’s top nominee. Come to think of it, you know what might actually save 143? A ringing tribute from Swift. It wouldn’t be as bad as the last time she gave someone their Video Vanguard Award.