Double Tap to Zoom

Missy Elliott will receive the MTV Video Vanguard Award at this year's VMAs, joining previous winners Beyoncé, Rihanna, Kanye, Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, and Madonna.

While the honor coincides with her recent reentry into the charts, it's a rather long time coming. After all, Elliott's legacy spans three decades and her debut album “Supa Dupa Fly” dropped back in 1997. She remains the only female rapper to have six studio albums certified platinum, including her pivotal 2002 album, “Under Construction.” She's since received an honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this YouTube video.

Bruce Gillmer, Head of Music and Music Talent, Viacom and Co-Brand Head, MTV International acknowledged that “her creative vision across production, performance, and songwriting is unmatched” and that her “impact on the music landscape is indelible.”

Missy Elliot will also perform at the award show on August 26.

We Recommend
  • Teyana Taylor's New Album Is As Star-Studded As Her Listening Party
  • Missy Elliott's Sneaker Rotation Is so Big It Has Its Own Warehouse
  • Ranking Every Super Bowl Halftime Show Since 2000 from Worst to Best
  • Tune in to Our 50 Favorite Tracks of 2019 Playlist
What To Read Next
  • Andrew Reynolds' Tasty New Balance 993 Is a Dad Shoe Built For The Board
  • Is It a Loafer or a Mary Jane? Neither — It's a Miu Miu
  • Nike’s Slick Air Max Skate Shoe Makes the Blues Actually Look Great
  • New Balance Toughened Up Its Cleanest Dad Shoe
  • The Delightful adidas Dad Shoes Made With Blood, Sweat, & Tears
  • Raf Simons Is Back Selling Raf Simons