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
  • 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
  • adidas’ Lace-Trimmed Samba Mary Jane Gets a Dose of the Summer Blues
  • An adidas Slipper So Good, They’re Luxuriously Camouflaged
  • With Studs & Piercings, Jordan's Mary Jane Sneaker Goes Punk Ballerina
  • How to Make Good Khaki-Toned Air Forces Better? Add Cordura
  • Onitsuka Tiger Just Made a Principal Dancer Out of Its Simplest Sneaker
  • This Is Nike's Most Blue-tiful Air Max Sandal Yet