Photo credit: Instagram/lizzobeeating
Lizzo has given fans another reason to revisit one of the most recognizable moments in MTV Video Music Awards history.
The singer referenced Cardi B in a playful post on X, comparing a recent moment between the two friends to Diana Ross’ famous interaction with Lil Kim at the 1999 MTV VMAs. The post quickly drew attention because the reference connects a current friendship with a moment that has remained part of music culture for more than 25 years.
Lizzo brings back a 1999 VMA classic
The moment Lizzo referenced happened during the 1999 MTV Video Music Awards. Lil Kim arrived at the ceremony in her now-famous purple outfit, which left one breast exposed except for a matching pastie.
Later in the ceremony, Kim joined Mary J. Blige and Diana Ross onstage to present an award. Ross reacted to Kim’s outfit by touching her exposed breast. Kim laughed during the exchange, turning an already talked-about outfit into one of the night’s most remembered images.
The Television Academy still lists the interaction among notable moments from the 1999 ceremony.
The incident has been viewed differently by the people who were there. Mary J. Blige later said she felt uncomfortable watching the interaction and protective of Kim. Kim, however, has spoken about it as a memorable moment in her career.
That history gives Lizzo’s reference an added layer. Her post was framed as playful praise toward Cardi rather than commentary on the original controversy.
Lizzo and Cardi B have musical history
The connection between Lizzo and Cardi B goes beyond social media jokes.
The two artists first made a major mark together with Rumors in 2021. Their collaboration later continued with What’s Goin On, a song on Cardi B’s 2025 album Am I the Drama?
The track was released Sept. 19, 2025, and features Lizzo alongside Cardi. Official music listings credit both artists on the song.
The collaboration also gave fans another example of their creative relationship outside their earlier hit. What’s Goin On incorporates the familiar hook from 4 Non Blondes’ What’s Up?, adding another layer of nostalgia to the pairing.
A year after that release, Lizzo’s latest post once again put their friendship in the spotlight.
Why the post is getting attention
The appeal of the post comes from the reference itself. The 1999 VMA moment is instantly recognizable to longtime music fans, while Cardi and Lizzo represent a much newer chapter in pop and hip-hop culture.
It also shows how moments from award shows can continue to resurface decades later. A scene that once dominated entertainment coverage can become shorthand for friendship, fashion and celebrity culture.
For Lizzo and Cardi, the reference adds another playful moment to a relationship that has already produced music, public praise and now a memorable social media exchange.
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