Taylor Swift swept the MTV Video Music Awards nominations) announced on Tuesday, August 8, 2023. The popular artist, who dominated the pop scene in 2023, managed to collect eight nominations, while R&B singer SZA came in second with a total of six.

Both were recognized in the important Video of the Year category for their music videos for the songs “Anti-Hero” and “Kill Bill”, respectively. Followed by Doja Cat, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Olivia Rodrigo, Sam Smith and Kim Petras with 5 nominations each.

Swift and Kendrick Lamar are also nominated for Best Director. Lamar is nominated for the “Count Me Out” video, which he co-directed with Dave Free. Both have already won twice in this category: Swift for directing “The Man” (2020) and “All Too Well (The Short Film)” (2022). Lamar for his involvement in directing “Alright” (2015) and “Humble” (2017).

Other musicians vying for statuettes this year include Lana Del Rey, Bad Bunny, Shakira, Janelle Monae, Paramore, Blackpink, Adele, Rosalia, Blink-182, Fall Out Boy, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Diddy, Karol G, Tomorrow X Together and Metallica. The awards ceremony will take place on September 12, 2023.