Cardi B and Kehlani Win Best Hip-Hop Video at the 2026 MTV VMAs for “Safe”
Cardi B and Kehlani won Best Hip-Hop at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards for their “Safe” music video. Snoop Dogg hosted the ceremony on September 27 in Los Angeles. (pitchfork.com)
The category put “Safe” alongside videos from Drake, Don Toliver, Megan Thee Stallion, Travis Scott, and Tyler, the Creator. Cardi B and Kehlani came away with the Moon Person in a field that showed how many different sounds and visual styles sit under hip-hop today. (pitchfork.com)
That makes the result a good debate for fans: Was “Safe” the strongest hip-hop video of the year? Some viewers will judge the song and performance. Others will put more weight on the concept, direction, and whether the visuals leave a lasting impression after the music stops.
The win also puts a Cardi B and Kehlani collaboration at the center of that conversation. Their video took the award, but the nominees give fans plenty to argue over—and a reason to revisit the work rather than judge the category by name recognition alone.
What do you think: Did “Safe” deserve Best Hip-Hop, or would you have picked another nominee?