Video Music Awards 1999

The caustic, irreverent humor of Chris Rock was a perfect fit for the 16th annual extravaganza, as he gleefully mocked both presenters and winners alike. Rock's ad-libs, directed at everyone from politicians to models to musicians, were the highlights of the show. That's not to downplay the music, however, as Ricky Martin wowed the crowd with a lively rendition of his massive hit, “Livin' La Vida Loca.” The Latin heartthrob's performance was indicative of the gala's ecumenical approach, as artists as disparate as Lauryn Hill, Nine Inch Nails, Eminem, Kid Rock, TLC and DMX performed in a show that equally celebrated rock, hip-hop, R&B and Latin music. Nominees for Best Video of the Year included Martin, Hill, Korn, the Backstreet Boys (who also perform) and Will Smith, featuring Dru Hill and Kool Moe Dee.