Britney Spears Admits ‘How Scared’ She Felt Performing with Live Python at 2001 VMAs

The singer performed her song “I’m a Slave 4 U” with an albino python at the MTV Video Music Awards

Britney Spears opens up about “how scared she was” during her 2001 VMA performance with a live python.

On Wednesday, Spears, 41, shared a throwback video on Instagram of her performing her song “I’m a Slave 4 U” at the MTV Video Music Awards at the turn of the century. In the clip, the singer — who held a snake draped around her neck and lifted its body in her arms — moved around the stage as she sang the now-iconic song.

“One of my favorite performances was with an albino python 😳🐍💃🏼 …” Spears captioned the post, before adding that she wasn’t completely relaxed during the now-famous performance.

“I still remember how scared I was when I got this snake and went on stage!!!”

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Designed by Kurt and Bart, the star’s costume for the 2001 awards show included a green bra and low-waisted bejeweled shorts, as well as green and purple scarves attached to the shorts.

“I talked more about this performance and other favorites in my book #TheWomanInMe,” Spears continued in the post’s caption, before adding, “Can’t wait for you to read it on October 24th 😉🌹 @gallerybooks @simonschusteruk.”

The singer’s video ended with a picture of her new book — which featured an animation of a python wrapped around her — along with details of when it would be available for pre-order. Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Britney Spears.

Steve Granitz/WireImage

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Back in July, PEOPLE exclusively revealed that Spears book The woman in me will be published on October 24. The book will be published by Gallery Books, published by Simon & Schuster.

“Britney’s compelling testimony in open court shook the world, changed laws and showed her inspiring strength and courage,” Jennifer Bergstrom, senior vice president and publisher of Gallery Books, told PEOPLE at the time.

“I have no doubt that her memoir will have a similar impact – and will be the publishing event of the year. We couldn’t be more proud to have helped her finally share her story.”

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education