Singer Justin Timberlake performs at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards in New York, August 31, 2006.(Xinhua Photo)

Photo Gallery >>>BEIJING, Sep. 1 (Xinhuanet) -- The U.S.MTV Music Video Awards have been held in New York Thursday night, with stars such as Christina Aguilera taking to the stage.

The performanceshave arousedstrong criticismsin newspapers and websites.

Boston Heraldconsidered there were very few "shocks" and "no iconic moment" from the awards show that just a few years ago found Madonna and Britney Spears kissing. The only thing that came close was "Lil' Kim presenting in a prison uniform."

Agreeing withDaily Telegraph, CNN said: Despite Shakira's ever-gyrating hips, Justin Timberlake's "SexyBack" and the obscured image of a naked midget, Thursday night's MTV Video Music Awards had about as much spontaneity as an episode of "Cribs."

"It was a night of upsets, with favourites The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Latin pop queen Shakira failing to score in any major categories," Daily Telegraph reported.

Surprisingly, the night belonged to the likes of Las Vegas punk band Panic! at the Disco, who walked away with the best video award for their "I Write Sins Not Tragedies," less than a year after releasing their debut album.

The viewers' choice award, which MTV said had received more than 40 million votes, was picked up by alternative band Fall Out Boy for their "Dance, Dance."

British singer James Blunt was a less surprising winner, taking best male video and best cinematography for his platinum hit "You're Beautiful."

Pink's parody of bubble-headed pop tarts, "Stupid Girls," won for best pop video, Beyonce took home the best R&B video trophy for her booty-shaking "Check On It."

(Agencies)