Kanye West out and about with friends wearing a Louis Vuitton backpack, New York City, USA - 16.07.08

The disgruntled rapper stormed off from the 2007 ceremony, claiming he had been mistreated by organisers and swearing he'd never return.

West, who left without an award, also accused the music cable network bosses of exploiting Britney Spears, whose terrible performance stole the show.

But the rap star was present at a pre-awards photo conference in Los Angeles on Thursday (04Sep08), where he joined fellow performers T.I. and Christina Aguilera and show host Russell Brand.

The VMAs at Paramount Pictures will also mark Aguilera's first televised performance since becoming a mum in January (08).

Source: WENN