Missy Elliott and Lizzo: 'We Run It' at the 2019 VMAs
Why these two powerhouse black women were so significant for the awards ceremony
When Missy Elliott and Lizzo collaborated for the 2019 hit “Tempo,” it just made sense. If you were around in the late ’90s, you had a Missy Elliott CD. You understood the significance of the garbage bag. Having a Tribute to the Vanguard award for Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott seemed like it was a long time coming. But doing it on the same night that Lizzo flocked the stage with afro-wearing, cornrow-posing chocolate women and a bouncing, brown, ginormous butt made it that much better. (Sir Mix a Lot and Missy walked so Lizzo could run, you understand?)