Cardi B presented Missy Elliott her Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award Monday evening and prefaced it with a heartfelt speech about the wide-spread impact the rapper had on the music industry and on Cardi B herself: "Everybody has copied from Missy Elliott! Even me! I don’t care, so what!"
After a few quirky blunders, she continued: “From the inflatable suit, to the knee-high Adidas, to the bug-eyed shades, and the attitude that infused every look in every video. She was always 100% Missy, and a champion for women who wanted to be doing their own thing. Missy has inspired countless young women to find their own voice and stand up for themselves. She’s constantly sending inspirational vibes more than ever. She’s a voice we need.” See the full speech above.
The 2019 VMAs are being held Monday evening at New Jersey's Prudential Center. Hosted by comedian Sebastian Maniscalo, the 36th annual award show has Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift leading the way with 10 nominations each, and Missy Elliott receiving the esteemed Video Vanguard Award. See the full list of winners here, and the best red carpet looks here.
