The prestigious Video Vanguard Award was given to Hype Williams at last night's (August 31) 2006 MTV Video Music Awards for the first time since 2003, when Duran Duran received the honor.

Williams was presented the award by Missy Elliott and Busta Rhymes, who have both starred in some of Hype's greatest masterpieces. Since1994, Hype has directed over 200 videos for No Doubt, Aaliyah, Kanye West, Outkast, Nas, DMX and many others. Past Video Vanguard recipients include David Bowie, Madonna, U2 and Michael Jackson.

"I'm very excited to get here," Hype told. "I put a lot of time and effort into doing things that I thought people would like to see from their favorite artists. It's been a long road to get here and it's good to see MTV is celebrating the art of music videos. I appreciate Van Toffler and Judy McGrath (at MTV) for making it happen."

In addition to his Video Vanguard award, a number of Williams-directed videos were nominated for VMA's this year
In recognition of his Vanguard award, Palm Pictures is planning the re-release Hype Williams: The Videos Vol. 1 DVD, which includes an interview with Hype and ten Williams-directed videos including videos by the Wu-Tang Clan, Jay-Z, Craig Mack, LL Cool J, Nas, Mase, Busta Rhymes and more. ..


read more