Lady Gaga kicked off the MTV Video Music Awards with a win for artist of the year, immediately setting the night’s tone.

The show’s top nominee promised a performance later and delivered, hitting the stage at Madison Square Garden after her acceptance speech, which sent the audience into a frenzy at the UBS Arena where the VMAs were being held.

In her earlier remarks, Gaga stressed the deeper meaning of artistry.

“Being an artist is an attempt to connect the souls of people all over the world,” she said. “Being an artist is a discipline and craft into reaching someone’s heart where it grows its roots, reminding them to dream. Being an artist is a responsibility to smile, dance, cry.”

She dedicated the award to her fans and paid homage to her partner, Michael Polansky.

“Creating with y

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