As MTV readies itself for the highly anticipated 2012 Video Music Awards, it has announced four new additions to the musical lineup including Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne.
According to MTV, Rihanna will kick off the award ceremony with her new song "Cockiness" featuring ASAP Rocky. As of Tuesday, music fans can listen to the song on the Artists.MTV Web site as well as on Rihanna's official Web site. After her performance on Thursday the song will be available for purchase on iTunes. Rihanna is also scheduled to perform her song "We Found Love."
Additionally, Lil Wayne will debut the first televised performance of his song No Worries." 2 Chainz, who will perform for the first time at the VMA's, will perform an unspecified song from his album "Based on a T.R.U. Story." Lastly, Nicki Minaj will perform "Check it Out."
Already announced performers include: Frank Ocean, Taylor Swift, Green Day, Pink, Alicia Keyes and One Direction. Among the confirmed award presenters are: The Wanted, Andy Samberg, Rashida Jones, 2 Chainz, Kesha, Miley Cyrus, Wiz Khalifa, Mac Miller and the 2012 U.S. Women's Gymnastics team the "Fierce Five."
MTV also unveiled on Tuesday the contents of the coveted gift bags that will be distributed to musical guests and celebrities taking part in the show. Among the goodies that these celebs will receive are: a two-night stay at their choice of Andaz Hotels, a Bombay Sapphire drinking glass and necklace, iPhone 4/4s cases, makeup from Covergirl, a candle from Crabtree & Evelyn, a bottle of fragrance from Lacoste, a free two-year membership to Netflix, clothing from Nikki Rich, vintage belts from Robbie French Designs, messenger bags from Timbuk2 and much more. Additionally, one MTV fan will have the opportunity to win a free gift bag during the VMA Pre-Show, which starts at 7:00pm on Thursday.