A Night of Stars and Spectacle at the 2025 VMAs
The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards delivered a spectacular night of music and memorable moments, broadcast live from the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Hosted by the legendary LL Cool J, the September 7th ceremony celebrated the year’s best artists and videos, featuring electrifying performances, heartfelt tributes, and the crowning of music royalty. For the first time, the event was simulcast on CBS, expanding its reach alongside its traditional home on MTV and Paramount+.
Legends Take Center Stage
This year’s ceremony placed a special emphasis on honoring musical icons. Puerto Rican superstar Ricky Martin was the recipient of the first-ever Latin Icon Award. Following a high-energy medley of his greatest hits including “Livin’ la Vida Loca” and “La Copa de la Vida,” Martin accepted the award with a heartfelt speech. “I am addicted to your applause, that’s why I keep coming back,” he told the cheering crowd, dedicating the honor to his children, Valentino and Matteo.
As reported by digitaltrendstoday.com, the night also celebrated two other trailblazers. The incomparable Mariah Carey was honored with the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, while hip-hop pioneer Busta Rhymes received the inaugural MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award.
The show also featured a poignant tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne. Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry joined forces with YUNGBLUD and Nuno Bettencourt for a powerful performance honoring the “Prince of Darkness.”
Gaga, Rosé, and Mars Among Top Winners
Lady Gaga, who led the night with 12 nominations, took home one of the evening’s most coveted awards, Artist of the Year. In a moving acceptance speech, she spoke on the power of art. “Being an artist is an attempt to connect the souls of people all over the world,” Gaga said. “I hope as you navigate through the mayhem of daily life, you are reminded of the importance of the art of your life.”
The award for Song of the Year went to Bruno Mars and Rosé for their hit collaboration “APT.” Accepting the award on behalf of the duo, Rosé dedicated the win to her “16-year-old self” and anyone who has dreamed of being recognized for their hard work.
Other Notable Moon Person Winners:
- Best New Artist: Alex Warren
- Best Country: Megan Moroney – “Am I Okay?”
- Best K-pop: Lisa (feat. Doja Cat and Raye) – “Born Again”
- Best Afrobeats: Tyla – “PUSH 2 START”
- Best R&B: Mariah Carey – “Type Dangerous”
- Song of Summer: Tate McRae – “Just Keep Watching”
- Best Alternative: sombr – “back to friends”
Unforgettable Performances Light Up New York
The night kicked off with a bang as Doja Cat opened the show with her track “Jealous Type,” joined by legendary saxophonist Kenny G. The stage remained hot with a Medusa-inspired performance from Tate McRae, who delivered a medley of her hits “Revolving Door” and “Sports Car.”
Rising artists also had their moment to shine. British singer-songwriter Lola Young performed her viral hit “Messy” on the VMA Extended Play Stage, while the global girl group KATSEYE made their VMA debut during the pre-show. The ceremony successfully blended tributes to music’s past with a celebration of its vibrant present and promising future, creating another unforgettable chapter in VMA history.
