Pop's ladies lead MTV VMAs with raunchy moves and tears

Beyonce smiles with Jay-Z and daughter Ivy Blue after accepting the Video Vanguard Award on stage during the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards in Inglewood, California August 24, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

2014 MTV Video Music Award

2014 CMT Music Awards

Beyonce, delivered the night's most touching moment when accepting the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard award for her lifetime achievement in music from her husband, rapper Jay Z, who called her the "greatest living entertainer."

Jay Z, carrying the couple's daughter Blue Ivy, then shared a sweet kiss on stage with his wife, who was overcome with emotion, saying "I have nothing to say, I am so full from gratitude."

The singer, dressed in a sparkly bodysuit and surrounded by large screens and silhouetted dancers, performed a mini-concert of her hits including "Haunted" "Drunk in Love," "Partition" and "Blue," her ode to her daughter.

Beyonce picked up three other awards; best collaboration for "Drunk in Love" with Jay Z, and best cinematography and video with a social message for "Pretty Hurts."

Pop music's ladies delivered high-octane performances throughout the night. Ariana Grande kicked off the show with "Break Free" before joining Minaj and Jessie J for "Bang Bang."