Sienna Spiro walked into the Peacock Theater as the artist you meant to look up and walked out as a best new artist winner. The British singer-songwriter made her VMAs debut on Sept. 27, performing“Great Expectation”in a silver dress while standing atop a giant record and turntable, backed by a live band and singers. The crowd responded with a standing ovation, the second of the night for a U.K. artist after RAYE.
The momentum didn’t stop there. Spiro took home best new artist, beating six nominees including Magnus Ferrell and Myles Smith. Her acceptance speech was refreshingly unscripted, with Spiro admitting she didn’t think she would win before thanking her fans, her team, Capitol, and the women in her life. It’s the kind of moment that turns a rising artist into a household name.
“Great Expectation”has already spent three straight weeks at No. 1 on the U.K. Official Singles Chart, so the U.S. is officially late to the party. With a major award win, a viral performance, and a song that refuses to leave the top spot, Spiro’s trajectory is looking very steep. Which Sienna Spiro song are you playing first?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.