The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) may have been filled with memorable moments, but few left as lasting an impression as Sabrina Carpenter’s explosive performance and her unforgettable red-carpet fashion. In a night that celebrated music’s biggest stars, Carpenter stood out by not only embracing her pop roots but also paying tribute to one of music’s greatest icons—Madonna—while firmly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with in today’s pop landscape.
Sabrina Carpenter took the stage to perform a medley of her biggest hits, beginning with her breakout anthem “Please Please Please,” a fan favorite. The performance was already set to be a standout moment, but Carpenter added a layer of surprise and nostalgia with a spoken-word interlude straight from Britney Spears’ “Oops!... I Did It Again.” The moment was pure pop magic, sending the audience into a frenzy of excitement. But Carpenter wasn’t done—her high-energy set transitioned seamlessly into her viral hit “Espresso,” proving once again that she has both the vocal chops and the charisma to command any stage.
The performance was as theatrical as it was powerful. Set against a futuristic, space-inspired backdrop, Carpenter interacted with both an astronaut and an alien, culminating in a kiss that had social media buzzing. The alien reference, a callback to her music video, brought the surreal and playful aesthetic of Carpenter’s work to life, further cementing her status as pop’s most playful provocateur. Her ability to fuse sci-fi elements with classic pop references made it clear that Carpenter isn’t afraid to take risks, and those risks are paying off.
However, it wasn’t just Carpenter’s performance that turned heads at the VMAs—it was her red carpet moment. The 25-year-old singer arrived in a stunning, vintage Bob Mackie gown—the very same dress Madonna wore to the 1991 Oscars. With its sparkling white fabric and intricate beading, the gown instantly conjured images of Madonna’s legendary night. Rather than simply recreating the look, Carpenter made it her own, accessorizing with elegant De Beers jewelry and her signature bombshell blonde curls. The result was a perfect blend of old Hollywood glam and modern-day pop stardom, leading fans to draw comparisons between Carpenter, Madonna, and even Marilyn Monroe.
This wasn’t just a nod to the past, though—it was a declaration. By stepping into the shoes of pop royalty, Carpenter was telling the world that she’s not only inspired by the legends who came before her, but she’s ready to join their ranks. It’s a bold move, and one that takes confidence, but Carpenter has that in spades. With six VMA nominations, including Song of the Year for “Espresso” and Best Direction for “Please Please Please,” Carpenter is no longer just pop’s newest darling—she’s a contender for pop music’s crown.
As the night went on, Carpenter’s influence was felt beyond her performance. From her nomination for Artist of the Year to the whispers about her upcoming projects, it was clear that the “Short n' Sweet” singer has only just begun. Her ability to blend timeless influences with fresh ideas makes her one of the most exciting artists to watch in the coming years. In an industry that often prioritizes spectacle over substance, Carpenter brings both in equal measure—delivering not only hit songs but also unforgettable moments.
While we’re still reeling from her spectacular performance and Madonna-inspired fashion moment, it’s clear that Carpenter is on a trajectory that will only continue to rise. Her ability to connect with fans through her music, her visuals, and her bold artistic choices sets her apart from the rest. She’s not just playing in pop’s sandbox—she’s redefining it, making it her own, and inviting her audience along for the ride.
So, what’s next for Sabrina Carpenter? If the VMAs were any indication, this is only the beginning. With a fresh album, Short n’ Sweet, out now, there’s no better time to dive into her music and get a taste of what’s coming next. Whether you’ve been a fan for years or you’re just discovering her work, Carpenter’s latest tracks are must-listens for anyone who loves pop with an edge. And if her VMAs performance left you wanting more, don’t worry—you can catch her on tour later this year, bringing her signature style and explosive energy to stages across the country.