Brown makes history as the first male country artist to perform on the show
Global entertainer Kane Brown is set to make an epic VMAs debut from the Toyota Stage with a first-time TV performance of “Grand,” the new single from his highly-anticipated third album Different Man, dropping September 9th.
Brown continues to make VMAs history as the first male country artist to perform on the iconic show. Last year, he was the only country artist to receive a 2021 nomination for “Video for Good” for his emotionally charged single “Worldwide Beautiful.”
This marks Toyota’s fourth year as exclusive sponsor of VMAs remote performances, continuing its tradition of partnering with MTV to activate innovative in-show moments, this year using cutting-edge Mixed Reality technology, powered by The Famous Group – the creative technology company behind high-profile mixed reality activations in the Super Bowl, MLB All-Star Game, and NFL Wild Card Slime Game on Nickelodeon.
Fans will be treated on a musical journey from NYC to New Jersey in the stylish and versatile Toyota Corolla Cross with Kane Brown’s hit “Be Like That” serving as the soundtrack for the trip, leading into his performance on the Toyota Stage.
“Creating unforgettable cultural moments that weave our partners into the fabric of our award shows by leveraging innovation is Velocity’s gold standard, and this year’s remote performance at the VMAs will be no exception,” shares Dario Spina, CMO, Velocity, Paramount. “Toyota continues to be an incredible partner and we’re excited for The Famous Group’s creative excellence in mixed reality to help MTV send Kane Brown’s historic performance into the stratosphere.”
Brown is the latest to be added to the growing list of performers which include Anitta, J Balvin, Marshmello x Khalid and Panic! At The Disco. Global superstar Nicki Minaj will also perform live for the first time since 2018 and receive the prestigious Video Vanguard Award.
Jack Harlow, Kendrick Lamar and Lil Nas X lead the nominations with seven each. Doja Cat and Harry Styles follow with six each with Billie Eilish, Drake, Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift and The Weeknd closely behind with five apiece. Noms for social categories “Group of the Year” and “Song of Summer” to be announced soon.
Fans can vote for their favorites across 22 gender-neutral categories by visiting vote.mtv.com through Friday, August 19th, thanks to Burger King. Voting for “Best New Artist,” presented by EXTRA Gum, remains active into show.
