Eminem delivered a thrilling performance to kick off the 2024 MTV Music Video Awards with his new single “Houdini,” from his recent album “The Death of Slim Shady.” The rapper took the stage at UBS Arena in Elmont, N.Y., on September 11, 2024, showcasing his energetic style while dressed in a black T-shirt and sporting bleached hair.
During his performance, Eminem engaged the audience by bringing out a variety of his alter egos, along with a lookalike of his younger self for a skit. He was later joined virtually by Jelly Roll for their collaboration “Somebody Save Me,” as Jelly Roll was unable to attend the event due to touring commitments.
“The Death of Slim Shady,” which dropped in July, features tracks like “Renaissance,” “Brand New Dance,” and “Houdini.” This marks Eminem’s return to opening the VMAs for the first time in over ten years; his previous opening act was in 2010, where he performed “Not Afraid” and shared the stage with Rihanna for “Love the Way You Lie.”
In 2022, he appeared at the VMAs alongside Snoop Dogg for “From the D 2 The LBC.” This year, Eminem is nominated for eight awards, including video of the year, best hip-hop, and song of the summer.
The ceremony is hosted by Megan Thee Stallion and features performances from a lineup of artists, including Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, Halsey, Lenny Kravitz, Rauw Alejandro, LL Cool J, Anitta, and GloRilla. Katy Perry will be honored with the Video Vanguard Award and is set to perform a medley of her greatest hits.