The Weeknd Opens the 2020 VMAs with Rooftop Performance of 'Blinding Lights'

Following a powerful and emotional opening monologue from VMA’s host, Keke Palmer, The Weeknd kicked off this year’s VMAs with a legendary performance of ‘Blinding Lights’!

Performing from the observation deck of Hudson Yards’ The Edge, his performance was filled with bright lights and fireworks, all while a helicopter followed his every move.

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VMAS

A post shared by The Weeknd (@theweeknd) on Aug 30, 2020 at 6:12pm PDT

The Weeknd was nominated for six awards this year, and walked away with ‘Best R&B’ and ‘Video of the Year.’

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I forgot to thank my fans. None of this exists without ya’ll. Xo

A post shared by The Weeknd (@theweeknd) on Aug 30, 2020 at 7:25pm PDT

During his brief acceptance speeches, The Weeknd called for justice for Breonna Taylor and Jacob Blake, “It’s really hard for me to celebrate right now and enjoy this moment, so I’m just gonna say justice for Jacob Blake and justice for Breonna Taylor. Thank you.”

The #VMA for Best R&B goes to @theweeknd for “Blinding Lights." pic.twitter.com/s2VjssMwjA

— MTV (@MTV) August 31, 2020