The queen of pop is set to reclaim her throne at the upcoming MTV Video Music Awards. Surpassing Taylor Swift, Madonna has secured 11 nominations for the event, making her the most nominated artist this year. Her acclaimed album “Confessions II” and its associated film have garnered her nods in key categories such as artist and video of the year.

Despite Taylor Swift being the most decorated solo artist in VMA history, Madonna’s achievement outshines with her 11 nominations compared to Swift’s nine for her album “The Life of a Showgirl” and the music video “The Fate of Ophelia.” Following closely behind Swift are Sabrina Carpenter and Ariana Grande, each earning seven nominations.

This isn’t Madonna’s first time leading the VMAs nominations; she previously dominated in 1990 and 1998 with her “Vogue” and “Ray of Light” eras. Her groundbreaking performance at the inaugural 1984 ceremony, where she boldly sang “Like a Virgin” in a wedding dress and “Boy Toy” belt buckle, remains a milestone in pushing the boundaries of cable television norms.

In addition to her nominations for artist and video of the year, Madonna is also recognized for the song and collaboration of the year with “Bring Your Love,” featuring fellow nominee Carpenter. The competition for video of the year includes Madonna’s “Confessions,” Swift’s “Ophelia,” Grande’s “Hate That I Made You Love Me,” Carpenter’s “Tears,” Bruno Mars’s “I Just Might,” and Gener8ion and Yung Lean’s “Storm.”

Fans can participate in voting for 13 categories this year, with the winners set to be revealed during the live broadcast of the ceremony on September 27, airing on CBS, MTV, and streaming on Paramount+.