Rappers Eminem and T.I. emerged as winners for Sunday’s (Sept. 13) MTV Video Music Awards, an event that featured a heartfelt tribute to late music icon Michael Jackson and boos for rapper Kanye West.
Eminem took home the VMA for Best Hip-Hop video for his song “We Made You,” while T.I. collected the award for Best Male Video for his Rihanna-assisted collaboration “Live Your Life.”
Presenter Sean “Diddy” Combs, who accepted the Best Male video award on T.I.’s behalf, noted the Georgia rapper’s absence “We miss you boy,” said Combs, who filled in for T.I. by thanking the rap star’s fans, record label and family.
“As you know, T.I. couldn’t be with us tonight, but he is here with us in spirit.”
Prior to presenting the award with actress Jamie Lynn Sigler, Combs announced West’s name among the nominees for Best Male Video.
The mention resulted in boos from many in the crowd, who were displeased with the Chicago rapper for interrupting the acceptance speech of country star Taylor Swift.
Accepting the award for Best Hip-Hop video, Eminem took time to thank his fans for “sticking by me this whole time” and producer Dr. Dre as he acknowledged his late friend and fellow rapper Proof.
“Proof, this one’s for you homie,” said the rapper, who appeared throughout the VMA’s via comedic skits with 30 Rock’s Tracy Morgan promoting the event’s Best New Artist Category.
The pair later presented that award went to pop diva Lady Gaga, whose choice of attire and theatrical performance provided one of the show’s noteworthy moments.
The evening’s house band, featuring rappers Wale, Pitbull and Kid Cudi, generated kudos from Brand.
The late DJ AM was recognized by Cudi, who paid tribute to the disc spinner with a rendition of his popular song “Make Her Say.”