2020 VMA’s Kicked Off With a Performance of “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd, Atop a Skyscraper

The Weeknd opened up 2020 Video Music Awards with a performance featuring faux bruises and blood on his face, on a remote stage - the top of Hudson Yards in New York City - and won two of his six nominations: Video of the Year and Best R&B. He performed his hit single off his recent album, After Hours , “Blinding Lights.” He began by waking up, blinded by flashing lights, and continued to sing atop the empty rooftop of Hudson Yards. He donned the same look he wore in the official music video, a sleek red suit and black pants, accessorized with black gloves, and of course his gory makeup. The Weeknd accepted both of his awards graciously, yet somberly. He decided to use his platform to highlight police brutality faced by Black Americans, simply stating: “It’s really hard for me to celebrate right now and enjoy this moment, so I’m just gonna say justice for Jacob Blake and justice for Breonna Taylor.” This is his second VMA performance since 2013 when he performed “Can’t Feel My Face.” You can watch his full VMA kickoff here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFzwgFO2bsg