On Sunday, September 7, Ariana Grande scored three new MTV VMA awards for Video of the Year, Best Pop and Best Long Form Video for her album, “Brighter Days Ahead”, a deluxe edition of her seventh studio album, “Eternal Sunshine.”
The popstar accepted the awards at UBS Arena in New York City, where she thanked everyone from her fans, her therapist, to even her father, Edward Butera, who featured in the 26-minute short film that accompanied her album.
She expressed deep gratitude to her fan base, highlighting their consistent support as she continues to experiment across music, acting, and theater. “I’m so grateful that I get to do this with my life and have such fiercely loving and supportive fans,” Grande said to the audience. “Thank you for growing with me and being so supportive of me as a human being, navigating in real time which creative itch needs to be scratched next, whether it’s acting, music, musical theater or a little bit of tour.”
Grande took the stage alongside director Christian Breslauer, describing the project as a celebration of self-discovery and healing. “This project is about the hard work that is healing all different kinds of trauma and coming home to our young selves and creating safety in our own lives, which is a lifelong process and a daily exercise.” Addressing fans who are on similar journeys, she adds, “If you’re on that path, please continue onward, because I promise there are brighter days ahead.”
Earlier in the night, the “Wicked” star accepted the Best Pop award, where she continued to appreciate the collaborative effort behind “Brighter Days Ahead.” Grande acknowledged and praised the producers, lighting crew, and art team who contributed to bringing the cinematic video to life.
Grande’s list of appreciation didn’t just stop there. She paid a tribute to her therapist and her fans of the LGBTQ+ community, simply concluding, “Thank you to my therapist and gay people. I love you.”
Lauren Tabuena, a senior at Roosevelts shares her opinion, “This year’s VMAs really highlighted the strength of women in the music industry. Ariana Grande’s speech tied everything together beautifully,” said Tabuena.
