Shakira Performs Epic Medley and Receives Video Vanguard Award at 2023 MTV VMAs

Shakira took home this year's Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards. As is customary for recipients of this award, the Grammy winner performed a career-spanning medley to commemorate the occasion.

She is the first South American artist to ever receive the award. Hitting the stage in a shimmery two-piece, she opened up her electric performance with "She Wolf" before singing snippets from hits like "Objection," "Whenever, Wherever" and "Hips Don't Lie."

Following her performance, Wyclef Jean presented her with the prestigious honor.

"Tonight is going to go down in history," he said. "It's such an honor for me to present to y'all someone I got a chance to work with, that I consider to be a musical genius."

Shakira graced the stage and thanked MTV for being a part of her career since she was 18. She saluted all who have helped her over the years, including her parents. She saluted her two children, Milan and Sasha, "for making me feel like mama can do it all."

Lastly, she thanked her fans "for always supporting me through thick and thin. Thank you so much for being my army and helping me fight all my battles."

The last time she graced the MTV stage was 17 years ago for "Hips Don't Lie" with Jean. Shakira has won four VMAs and received nods this year for Best Collaboration, Best Latin and Artist of the Year.

It's been a big 2023 for the Columbian-born superstar. This year, Shakira became the first female vocalist to debut in the Billboard Hot 100's top ten with a Spanish-language track with "BZRP Music Sessions, Vol. 53," and again a month later with "TQG." She recently made history claiming the top three spots on the Billboard Latin Pop Airplay Chart, a first-time achievement in the chart's history.

"Shakira is a true global force who continues to inspire & influence the masses with her unique, musical prowess. She's a trailblazer for women around the world & one of the first artists to lead the globalization of Latin music," Bruce Gillmer of Paramount said in a statement. "Her massive impact across the musical landscape will be long lasting as she continues to create and entertain at the highest level."

Last year, Nicki Minaj accepted the Vanguard Award. Other previous recipients include Beyoncé, Madonna, Janet Jackson, LL Cool J, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Justin Timberlake and Missy Elliott.