So , in anticipation of the award show 's 27th iteration , which airs on Sunday , September 12 at 9 p.m. EST , InStyle looks back at five of the most memorable VMA performances and appearances ever , and wonders : Can we still be shocked , or have we seen it all ? At the inaugural ceremony in 1984 , Madonna attained instant superstar status . She was a pop star who had been on top of her game for years In 1999 , Lil ' Kim appeared in an extreme glittering purple ensemble .
At the inaugural ceremony in 1984 , Madonna attained instant superstar status . She was a pop star who had been on top of her game for years In 1999 , Lil ' Kim appeared in an extreme glittering purple ensemble .