MTV Video Music Awards 2009 ceremony was dedicated to Michael Jackson

This year’s MTV Video Music Awards ceremony, which was held in New York last Sunday (September 13), was proclaimed a tribute to Michael Jackson. The event started with a special dedication by Madonna, who spoke about late singer’s achievements.

Dressed in black, Madonna said: «Michael Jackson was one of the greatest talents the world has ever known. Most of us had turned our backs on him. Long live the king».

Madonna was followed by ceremony host Russell Brand, who claimed that the show was «dedicated to the great Michael Jackson».

Ceremony featured the premiere of the first trailer for upcoming movie based on Michael Jackson's rehearsal footage. The video was already posted online, you can watch it here.

Beyonce became the main star of the ceremony, wining three awards – including the main Video Of The Year category – with her recent music video Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It). Lady Gaga was also awarded three times for Poker Face. The list of the winners also includes Taylor Swift, Eminem, Green Day and more.

The ceremony featured performances by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys (they sang the composition Empire State Of Mind from rapper’s last album The Blueprint 3), as well as by Lady GaGa, Nelly Furtado, Katy Perry, Ne-Yo, Muse and others.