Shawn Mendes, Doja Cat, Chlöe and Twenty One Pilots have been added to the performance lineup for the 2021 MTV Video Music Awards, the network announced on Tuesday, Aug. 24.
The four acts will join Olivia Rodrigo, Lorde, Lil Nas X, Machine Gun Kelly, Foo Fighters, and Camila Cabello in a star-studded lineup. This year’s VMAs are set to air live on Sept. 12 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Chlöe―who is half of Chlöe x Halle―will make her solo debut with the TV premiere of “Have Mercy” off of her upcoming album. Her set is a follow-up to last year’s VMA pre-show performance by Chlöe x Halle, in which the sisters sang a sparkly rendition of “Ungodly Hour.”
After a distanced 2020 event, the VMAs are coming back in 2021 with a live audience. “MTV and Barclays Center are working closely with state and local officials to implement best practices and execute a screen-breaking spectacle that brings together music fans from around the globe with the health and safety of our artists, fans, staff, and partners remaining the No. 1 priority,” organizers said in a statement, per MTV News. There is no mention of vaccine requirements, but New York previously implemented a vaccine requirement for indoor activities to begin mid-September.
Due to the proximity of the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, MTV plans to work with the 9/11 Day nonprofit to honor the National Day of Service and Remembrance.
2020’s unique event featured The Weeknd, CNCO, Roddy Ricch, and Maluma. Other artists included BTS, J Balvin, and Doja Cat in a variety of performances around New York City during the awards ceremony.
Lady Gaga and BTS were was the big winners at the 2020 MTV VMAs walking away with five and four awards respectively.
Three of Gaga’s trophies were shared with Ariana Grande for their collaborative track “Rain On Me”, including Song Of The Year, Best Collaboration, and Best Cinematography. The pair also performed the track live for the first time at the socially distanced ceremony.
