Relive the Past Three Decades Through These MTV VMA Photos

The MTV Video Music Awards are back on the West Coast this Sunday following 2013’s quick visit to Brooklyn. No matter: The lineup promises performances from Maroon 5, Sam Smith, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, Taylor Swift, and Iggy Azalea. It’s a 2013–14 time capsule, which is what the VMAs do best. Just look at past award shows: Each contained at least one moment that could serve as a microcosm for what was “cool” in that particular year. Don’t believe us? We’ll prove it. Proceed.