The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) shook the stage September 7, 2025. That groundbreaking event took place at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. The annual ceremony, honoring the best of the best in the music industry, was packed full of best performing and awarding. LL Cool J again hosted the ceremony, and again did so with his trademark charisma. Fans of all ages gathered in a joyful celebration of their favorite homegrown artists and songs from the last year.
Lady Gaga came through as the most nominated artist of the night, proving herself a mainstay in the music biz. She worked with Bruno Mars and took home the award for “Die With A Smile.” This latest accomplishment is perhaps the best proof of their phenomenal musical collaboration. Ariana Grande was awarded with great honors for her song “Brighter Days Ahead.” This historic achievement only cements her place as an industry-defying powerhouse and cultural star of a generation.
Notable Winners and Highlights
Yet the 2025 MTV VMAs celebrated all kinds of artists—from Latin pop to R&B to rock and beyond. ROSÉ and Bruno Mars teamed up to win an award for their collaboration “APT,” showcasing the growing trend of cross-genre collaborations. Travis Scott turned heads by winning his first award ever for “4X4Soltera,” proving again that he’s at the forefront of modern hip-hop.
Post Malone was the other big winner, continuing his magnificent run of awards. His unique ability to mix different genres and produce trending hits has earned him the love of fans around the globe. Mariah Carey, the pop diva extraordinaire, took home the honor for “Type Dangerous,” earning her place in music history.
The evening featured a new connected cities award spotlighting emerging talent. Warren took home the award for Best New Artist, cementing a thrilling trajectory going forward for the young talent. In 2023, Katseye was awarded the MTV Push Performance Of The Year Award for her track “Touch.” This recognition is a testament to her electrifying performance style.
Celebrating Diversity in Music
The 2025 MTV VMAs dawning with a beautiful tapestry of musical genres, from the influence of Afrobeat, Reggaeton, and Trap. Doja Cat and RAYE for “Born Again,” for their experimental soundscape combined with strong lyricism and vocal delivery. Tyla burst onto the scene with “PUSH 2 START.” This goes to show the increased presence of various genres of music at the awards.
Sabrina Carpenter added to the evening’s excitement by winning an award for “Short n’ Sweet.” Her ability to connect with audiences through relatable lyrics has made her a beloved artist among fans of all ages. This growing diversity among the winners showcased the rapidly changing landscape of music and the need to recognize and honor talent that hails from all walks of life.
Ricky Martin took home the new Latin Icon Award, acknowledging the singer’s impact on Latin music and culture through the years. His legacy, continued popularity and ongoing production of art is an encouragement to many emerging artists throughout the world. Honoring such a wide array of talents at the VMAs was a perfect example of what this year’s awards focused on— inclusivity, representation, and empowering all voices.
A Night to Remember
The 2025 MTV VMAs became one of the most unforgettable nights of our times, packed with unforgettable energy and celebration. The occasion celebrated the accomplishments of veteran artists while simultaneously laying the groundwork for the movement’s rising stars. As always, LL Cool J proved an exuberant host, running the show with rhythmic panache and tireless energy. Digital performances continued seamlessly, engaging audiences on both live and virtual platforms.
As fans cheered for their favorite artists, the energy was electric in the arena. We all know that music is key to creating culture and community, and bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds. This year’s awards ceremony was a rousing celebration of the awesome potential of music. Instead, it inspires, uplifts, and brings joy to millions!
