It was Jarvis Cocker who made Michael Jackson's 1996 performance of the 'Earth Song' memorable when he invaded the stage, whilst Jackson performed alongside a group of children. He ran around the singer, lifted his shirt and pretended to break wind. Cocker was subsequently questioned by the police over claims he had assaulted Jackson's child dancers. He was later released without charge.

Oasis also sparked controversy the same night. When picking up a prize from INXS frontman Michael Hutchence, Liam Gallagher commented that "has-beens shouldn't be presenting awards to gonna-be's".

Prince won his sixth international male artist award and Jackson was given the title "artist of a generation" and Oasis took a hat-trick of awards home.