Which VMA category debuted in 2001 to honor videos shown on MTV2?

The MTV2 Award debuted in 2001 to honor music videos that premiered on, or gained their start through, MTV’s sister channel MTV2. It was also fan-voted, giving the category a direct connection to the channel’s audience.

MTV2 launched as a more music-focused outlet associated with newer and less mainstream artists. The award recognized that channel’s role in breaking videos that might receive less exposure on MTV’s main network. Its first winner was Mudvayne’s “Dig,” which took the inaugural prize at the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards.

The category initially had unusually high visibility. Through 2005 it was treated as one of the main awards and presented during the primary ceremony. In 2006 it was moved to a commercial-break segment of the MTV2 simulcast, reflecting its reduced prominence.

The MTV2 Award lasted only a few years. MTV eliminated it after the 2006 ceremony as the VMAs were being revamped, and the category was never brought back. It should not be confused with Viewers’ Choice, which was a separate fan-voted award.