Who Had the Best Performance at the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards? – Readers Poll

Overall, the performances at the 2012 MTV Video Music Awards didn't really disappoint. Each of the performers brought their own vibes to the stage in L.A., and while some fans entertained with wholesome fun, a la Taylor Swift, others got down and dirty, like Rihanna. After watching the 2012 VMAs, who have you deemed as the best performer of the night?

Kicking off the festivities last night was Demi Lovato, who gave an impressive performance of her hit 'Give Your Heart a Break' on the red carpet during MTV's pre-show. She was followed by Rihanna, who opened the actual VMA broadcast with a medley of 'Cockiness' and 'We Found Love,' and she was a total BAMF with her gangster swag and raunchy attitude -- although we're sure some people would disagree that her crotch patting dance moves weren't the most tasteful.

One Direction also took the stage to perform their massive hits 'One Thing' and 'What Makes You Beautiful,' and teen girls everywhere erupted into complete hysterics as the adorable quintet sang and played their own instruments. It was like BSB meets the Beatles, but with a lot more hair gel. Pink dazzled us once again with her performance of 'Get the Party Started' and 'Blow Me,' starting the first song as a one-woman band on a synth, while she took flight for 'Blow Me' atop a huge set of red lips. Her high-flying nemesis Chris Brown was not pleased.

Later during the show, Frank Ocean slowed things down with a stirring performance of 'Thinkin Bout You,' providing one of the most emotional and sincere performances of the night. Alicia Keys also took the stage to perform her powerful new single 'Girl on Fire,' but her gorgeous vocals were outshone by gold-winning Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas, who performed a stunning routine while Keys sang. A hooded Nicki Minaj also joined the duo to lend a rap verse to the track. Speaking of Nicki, her 'Beez in the Trap' cohort 2 Chainz took the stage with Lil Wayne to perform 'Yuck!'

Later on, Green Day rocked the crowd, performing a new track  called 'Let Yourself Go.' And finally, Taylor Swift had closer duty, singing her new song 'We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together' for the first time live while dressed in a striped, summery outfit that looked like she was about to go yachting with her newfound fam the Kennedys. Although she and her dancers looked like they were extras in a '60s beach party movie, Swift ended with a very a rock 'n' roll moment by crowd surfing.

Click through the links above to check out all of the 2012 MTV Video Music Award Performances in case you missed any of them, and be sure to vote on your favorite below!