[1][2] Herbie Hancock was the show's most-awarded artist, taking home five awards, followed by Michael Jackson, who won three.

[9] Don Ohlmeyer was hired to produce the ceremony in a similar energetic fashion to his work in sports broadcasting.

[12] Madonna's performance of "Like a Virgin" has been referred to as one of the most "unforgettable" and "iconic" moments in both pop culture and VMA history for the singer's fashion and her "provocative moves".

[20][21] While descending the steps of the cake, one of her high heeled shoes slipped off, prompting her to dive to the floor and roll around to cover up the wardrobe malfunction.

[22] Her attempt to retrieve the shoe inadvertently led to her flashing her underwear on live television[21]—Rolling Stone listed the moment as the sixth-most outrageous in MTV VMA history.