Global Superstar Lisa Debuts Thrilling First Televised Performance of “SaWaDiKa,” Scores Major Win at 2026 VMAs

La Lalisa, la diva herself, graced the stage of the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday night.

Tyla introduced the global pop star as she delivered the first performance of her new single “SaWaDiKa” during the award show. Lisa brought out a slew of dancers for a high-energy rendition of the song, which the singer released earlier this month. It’ll be on her upcoming EP, Press Play, set to be released in October.

Lisa, whose real name is Lalisa Manobal, went into her performance with a win. The 29-year-old Blackpink member won the best pop category for her single “Dream” from her debut album Alter Ego. The song’s also nominated in the best K-pop category, best editing and best cinematography. Lisa’s also nominated again in the best K-pop category with Blackpink for their 2025 summer hit “Jump.”

Hosted by Snoop Dogg, the 2026 MTV VMAs aired on CBS on MTV. The show is taking place live from Los Angeles — well, almost live. The Ravens-Cowboys game on CBS delayed the televised start of the show by roughly 20 minutes; however, the ceremony started in person on time, meaning those in the audience in L.A. are seeing what happens before the viewers at home do.

It’s the first time the award show has taken place in L.A. in nearly a decade — the last time being in 2017 when Katy Perry hosted the ceremony at The Forum. The ceremony is produced by Gunpowder & Sky. Van Toffler serves as producer. Jesse Ignjatovic of Den of Thieves, Barb Bialkowski and Bruce Gillmer serve as executive producers alongside Barry Barclay and Floris Bauer. Melanie Block co-executive produces, while Gary Lanvy serves as co-producer. Snoop also executive produces alongside producers Sara Ramaker and Jasmin Ratansi. Jen Proctor serves as executive talent producer.

The 2026 VMAs kicked off with a cameo-filled performance from pop icon Madonna — Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, Sombr, Seth Rogen and more made appearances throughout, with the first two performing alongside Madonna. It was the first time the legendary singer has performed at the award show in 23 years.

Other performers at the show included Lisa, Sienna Spiro, GENER8ION, Kacey Musgraves, Teddy Swims, Sombr, Gunna and Yung Lean and more. Taylor Swift received the inaugural MTV VMA Artist Director Honors. Nirvana was honored with the iconic video vanguard award. The show also included tributes for the late Dolly Parton and George Michael.