Missy Elliot will be Honored with This Year’s Vanguard Award at the VMAs

Missy Elliott in concert. Photo by Stephen Lovekin/Variety/REX/Shutterstock (9878528co)

Missy Elliot might be doing the moonwalk to celebrate this piece of news.

The “Work It” rapper will be getting her freak on at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards, where she will be presented with the Michael Jackson Vanguard Award.

During her 30-year career, Missy — whose real name is Melissa — has sold 30 million records, won 5 Grammy Awards, received an honorary doctorate, and become the first female hip-hop artist inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

“Missy’s impact on the music landscape is indelible,” said Bruce Gillmer, head of music and music talent at Viacom and the co-brand head of MTV International. “Her creative vision across production, performance, and songwriting is unmatched.”

The recognition will also see the 48-year-old performing at the awards ceremony for the first time in 16 years.

The 2019 MTV Video Music Awards will be held on August 26th.