Calgary Journal reporter Colin Gallant says event was fun for those that attended
One of Canada’s most prestigious music award shows happened Sunday, June 15, and although the 25th MuchMusic Video Awards ceremony took place in Toronto, the excitement was felt in Calgary at a Samsung sponsored party at Flames Central.
Beginning at 3p.m., fans were offered complimentary wristbands for access to the screening party hosted by MuchMusic personality Gaby Henderson. While fans waited for the venue to open, they were treated to performances by nominees for Best Dance Video, Autoerotique and Keys N Krates set against live wakeboarding demonstrations.
While attendance was sparse, presumably due to grey skies and the event’s concurrence with Father’s Day, the audience clamored with excitement and eagerly flocked inside Flames Central to await the award show.
The show itself was filled with spectacle. Hedley’s opening number was all dazzle and showmanship and the group was rewarded with three wins including Video of the Year.
International performances included winners of Best International Video for artist and group, Lorde and Imagine Dragons. Ed Sheeran and Ariana Grande marked other performances from international acts. Domestic talent was also on display with YouTube sensation Kiesza, MAGIC!, Sam Roberts Band and Virginia to Vegas.
While Hedley won the most awards that night, the list of winner awarded talent of many different stripes. Thugli, Sam Roberts Band, City and Colour, Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, Drake, SonReal and Autoerotique, who took a victory lap in an encore performance.
A secret guest was promised to follow the show and it was revealed to be beloved funk-pop duo Chromeo. The pair were graceful about losing out on a trophy and charmed party-goers with their style and dance-friendly selections.
The MMVAs had their winners and losers but ultimately it was Calgarians who were the lucky ones. Those who left Flames Central that night did so with smiles on their faces and even a few with new smart phones in their pockets.