Missy Elliott and Lizzo: 'We Run It' at the 2019 VMAs
Why these two powerhouse black women were so significant for the awards ceremony
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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?)