Kacey Musgraves took the VMAs stage for the first time tonight, fresh off the release of her brilliant new album, Star Crossed, which is another classic following her enormous breakout Golden Hour. Kacey chose a modest white dress to deliver her debut live rendition of the album’s hazy title tune in front of a blazing, flaming heart for a dramatic performance. It’s not surprising that Kacey was chosen to perform this year, even though it’s her first time on MTV’s stage for this award presentation.
Musgraves began her career in country music, which is typically limited to the sibling network CMT rather than going over to MTV, but she has now evolved into a full-fledged pop sensation. Even though there are hints of folk and country on her new album, it leans more toward pop songwriting and psych-rock, firmly placing it in the MTV camp. In addition, she complemented the record’s release with a short film of the same name, elevating the visual aspects of the rollout to new heights. I’m not sure what else could qualify her for the Video Music Awards if that doesn’t.
