MTV VMA 2016: Watch Rihanna’s Video Vanguard Speech, Drake’s Introduction

Rihanna was the winner of this year’s Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the 2016 MTV VMAs. After performing four times—medleys encompassing her entire discography—Drake presented the award with a loving tribute. “She’s someone I’ve been in love with since I was 22 years old,” he said. “She’s one of my best friends in the world.” During Rihanna’s speech, she thanked her fans, country, her team, friends, Drake, and of course, MTV. “My success, it started as my dream, but now my success is not my own—it’s my family’s, it’s my fans’, it’s the Caribbean as a whole, it’s women, it’s black women.” Watch Drake’s introduction and her speech. Scroll down for an Instagram post from Drake, congratulating Rihanna.

This is a night for us all to be thankful for what you have done for us! You have affected so many of our lives in the best way possible. Tonight we celebrate you! @badgalriri

A photo posted by champagnepapi (@champagnepapi) on Aug 28, 2016 at 11:41pm PDT

She was also nominated for her videos for “Work” (Best Female Video and Best Collaboration) and her feature on Calvin Harris’ “This Is What You Came For” (Best Male Video and Best Collaboration). She shared the award for Best Male Video with Calvin Harris.

Previous Video Vanguard Award recipients include Kanye West, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Beastie Boys, Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, and Madonna. Kanye West’s acceptance speech last year included his famous 2020 presidential run declaration. 

Follow the rest of Pitchfork’s coverage of this year’s VMAs here. 

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