With regard to nominations, the two biggest nominees aside from Madonna were alt-rock band Garbage and rapper Will Smith.

In contrast, Garbage received all eight nominations for "Push It" but went home completely empty-handed at the end of the night.

[3] Nominees were announced at a press conference hosted by Courtney Love, Mayor Richard Riordan, and MTV president Judy McGrath on July 14.

Hosted by Kurt Loder and Serena Altschul with reports from Chris Connelly, John Norris, and Rebecca Romijn, the broadcast featured red carpet interviews, pre-taped interviews with Madonna and Hole, a preview of the music video for Madonna's "The Power of Good-Bye," and performances from Usher and Barenaked Ladies.

[8] MTV later confirmed that the alleged JF "hack" was a publicity stunt to promote the appearance of a commentator named Johnny Fame at their upcoming awards show.