Every year, the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) shine a spotlight on the industry’s burgeoning talents with the Best New Artist category. While taking home this prestigious award can be a career-defining moment, not winning doesn’t necessarily spell doom. In fact, several artists who missed out on this accolade have gone on to reach staggering heights of fame and success. Here are 14 such musicians who didn’t let a VMA Best New Artist loss hinder their path to stardom:

1.Katy Perry –Despite losing the Best New Artist award in 2008, Katy Perry quickly became a pop phenomenon, with mega-hits like “I Kissed a Girl,” “Firework,” and “Teenage Dream.”

2.Kanye West –Kanye might have had a slow start at the VMAs, but he certainly made up for it later, becoming one of the most influential and successful artists in hip-hop.

3.Lady Gaga –Although overshadowed in the Best New Artist category in 2008, Lady Gaga catapulted to fame swiftly thereafter, becoming an icon of music and fashion.

4.Ed Sheeran –Not securing the VMA Best New Artist award didn’t stop Ed Sheeran from becoming a global sensation with his soulful voice and relatable lyrics.

5.Beyoncé –Even Destiny’s Child never won the Best New Artist VMA, Beyoncé has since reached unfathomable success as a solo artist and cultural icon.

6.Miley Cyrus –Miley might have lost out in 2008, but she continues to reinvent herself and maintain relevance with an ever-evolving career.

7.Sia –Though not a winner as a new artist at the VMAs, Sia has built an impressive career as both a singer and songwriter known for her powerful anthems.

8.Lorde –The unique sound of Lorde didn’t capture the VMA’s Best New Artist statue, but it has earned her critical acclaim and an enthusiastic fanbase.

9.Imagine Dragons –Missed out on winning at the VMAs but went on to rock the world with hits like “Radioactive” and “Demons.”

10.Ellie Goulding –Her initial VMA snub didn’t prevent Ellie Goulding from lighting up charts worldwide with her distinctive voice and electrifying music.

11.The Weeknd –Despite not being crowned as Best New Artist by VMAs, The Weeknd became deeply influential with his distinct brand of dark RnB.

12.Nicki Minaj –Not snagging the new artist award at first try did little to stop Nicki Minaj from becoming one of rap’s most preeminent figures.

13.Lana Del Rey –Lana may have been overlooked by the VMAs early on, but she has since become the queen of moody pop-noir with timeless tracks.

14.Sam Smith –A VMA snub couldn’t dampen Sam Smith’s spirit; they have soared high with their soul-stirring vocals and heartfelt melodies.

In conclusion, while winning awards can certainly boost an artist’s visibility and appeal, these incredible musicians prove that a trophy is not essential to achieve longevity and impact in music history. Their talents, persistence, and evolving artistry have earned them places among some of the most successful music artists in recent times even after defying an early setback at the VMAs.