“WAP” duo will stage their first-ever VMAs main show performance at Newark’s Prudential Center on September 12
Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion will bring their “Bongos” to the big stage Tuesday as the “WAP” duo debuts their new single live for the first time at the MTV Video Music Awards.
A day after “Bongos” dropped, the VMAs announced Cardi and Megan’s addition Saturday, with the pair joining a performers lineup that already includes Olivia Rodrigo, Doja Cat, Lil Wayne, Demi Lovato, Fall Out Boy, Tomorrow x Together, Shakira, Anitta, Karol G, Peso Pluma, Metro Boomin and many more at Newark, New Jersey’s Prudential Center.
Surprisingly, “Bongos” will mark the first-ever VMAs performance for both Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion: While both appeared on the pre-show as emerging artists — Cardi did “Bodak Yellow” in 2017, Megan did a medley in 2019 — neither have actually performed during the VMAs itself.
Both Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion — both already Moon Persons winners — are up for awards at this year’s show: Cardi B is nominated for Best Hip Hop Video for her “Tomorrow 2” collaboration with GloRilla, while Megan Thee Stallion’s “Her” is in the running for Best Choreography, Best Direction and Best Art Direction.
(And a noteworthy subplot: The 2023 VMAs are being emceed in some capacity by Nicki Minaj, who has infamously feuded with Cardi B in recent years following their 2018 Fashion Week altercation.)
The 2023 MTV VMAs will air live from the Prudential Center on Tuesday, September 12. In addition to the performances and awards, Shakira will receive this year’s Video Vanguard award, while Diddy will be honored with the Global Icon Award.