Normani Delivers Stunning Performance of ‘Wild Side’ at 2021 VMAs

Normani made her debut performance of “Wild Side,” and it’s going down in the VMA books as a standout. The singer was true to the R&B song’s 2000s vibe during the 2021 VMAs. She brought out Teyana Taylor for a steamy dance number, a nod to Janet Jackson’s “Would You Mind,” ultimately solidifying her icon status for this year’s awards show.

She’s ready to pull up on you.

Normani on this year’s #VMAs red carpet. pic.twitter.com/t5qqCm6g0S

— black boy bulletin (@blkboybulletin) September 12, 2021

The “Wild Side” singer set the tone for the night with her red carpet appearance. Normani arrived in a white two-piece set by designer Patrycja Pagas. She elevated the look with a twisted updo, white pumps, and a metallic manicure to match her stage outfit later that night.

In comparison to her 2019 VMA performance of “Motivation,” Normani kept the visuals simple. She danced against a stark white stage with backup dancers in matching metallic ensembles. Normani instead hypnotized audiences with mesmerizingly fluid choreography and whistle notes.

Although Cardi B couldn’t make her sexy “Wild Side” cameo, Teyana Taylor stepped up to fill the role. Taylor took the stage strapped onto a board that Normani then climbed to give a dance nostalgic of Janet Jackson’s “Would You Mind.”

Janet Jackson’s impact. Great performance Normani #VMAs pic.twitter.com/xy4tF7EOOD

— Clue💫(on limit) (@ELLIMARAJ) September 13, 2021

Put some RESPECT on her name when you addressing NORMANI! 🚀 #VMAs pic.twitter.com/1n471iIHc8

— NormaniTourNews (@NormaniTourNews) September 13, 2021

Surpriseeeeeee 👅 @Normani

— TEYANA M.J. SHUMPERT (@TEYANATAYLOR) September 13, 2021

“Wild Side” is going down as one of the most iconic performances of the night, much like “Motivation” at the 2019 VMAs. Ciara introduced Normani, calling her “an icon in the making.” If social media buzz is any indication, we would have to agree.

.@Ciara intros @Normani‘s #VMAs “Wild Side” performance 🔥🔥😍 pic.twitter.com/98EZ5gdaF5

— Ciara Content 💃🏿👑 #LITAbyCiara #DareToRoam (@CiaraContent) September 13, 2021

Normani continues to stun audiences with her raw talent as a solo artist. Until the “Wild Side” singer releases more new music, you can re-watch her 2021 VMA performance below.