Canadian Artists Stand Out at the 2016 iHeartRadio Much Music Video Awards
The 2016 iHeartRadio MMVAS was a night of fantastic performances and well deserved wins by both Canadian and International artists. Originally known as just the Much Music Video Awards, this year MMVA’s co-branded with iHeartRadio due to the fact that Much’s parent company Bell media had reached a licensing agreement to operate a Canadian version of the iHeartMedia-owned service. This year hosting duties were given to none other than international supermodel Gigi Hadid, who stunned everyone on the red carpet in a red pantsuit with her hair pulled back into braid. Hadid seemed like a natural host by being witty, friendly and exuding a great stage presence.
There were many categories at the award show including video of the year, best director, best pop video, best hip hop video and several others. Video of the year included many incredibly talented artists; so talented it was difficult to just root for one. The award ended up going to Drake for his infamous song “Hotline Bling”. And it didn’t stop there for Drake, who was nominated for five awards. He also won best hip hop video for the same song, most buzz-worthy Canadian and “Hotline Bling” even won for best director, which was directed by Director X. Another famous Canadian nominated for four awards and walked away with two was international singer Shawn Mendes. He won best pop video for “I Known What You Did Last Summer” with Camila Cabello from Fifth Harmony. Mendes as well performed his new song “Treat you Better”, making it its first television debut. Fifth Harmony also performed their radio smash hit “Work From Home”. Another performance that really stood out was Canadian sister duo Tegan and Sara, who sang their new hit “Boyfriend” in stellar performance. Out of all the Canadian performers or nominees Alessia Cara was the one who really shined that night. She was nominated for video of the year, best pop video, most buzz-worthy Canadian and best new Canadian artist. Although she only won one of those awards, she received the one that best describes her, which is best new Canadian artist. In addition to this award, Cara performed her new song “Wild Things” with incredible passion and stage command. International nominees and performers had some remarkable moments as well. Nick Jonas won IHeartRadio International Artist of the year, beating out Taylor Swift, Zayn, Ariana Grande and Kanye West. Jonas even paused to recognize the recent horrific shooting in Orlando during his acceptance speech. “To all the families and victims of the shootings recently, we love you, and we have not forgotten you”, he said as he grasped his well-deserved award.
The 2016 iHeartRadio Much Music Video Awards was definitely a night of Canadian recognition in the music industry. @Much @OTSNmedia #MMVAs