The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) lit up the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on Sunday, September 7, with music’s biggest stars gathering for one of the most anticipated nights in entertainment. The ceremony, hosted by LL Cool J, aired live on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+.
Major Highlights
Lady Gaga dominated the night, leading with 12 nominations and taking home four awards, including Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration for her hit “Die With a Smile” with Bruno Mars. Mariah Carey was honored with the prestigious Video Vanguard Award, marking her first-ever VMA trophy after more than three decades in the industry. Busta Rhymes received the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award, while Ricky Martin was recognized as the first recipient of the Latin Icon Award.
Big Winners of the Night:
Video of the Year: Ariana Grande, “brighter days ahead” Song of the Year: ROSÉ & Bruno Mars, “APT.” Artist of the Year: Lady Gaga Best New Artist: Alex Warren Best Album: Sabrina Carpenter, Short n’ Sweet Song of the Summer: Tate McRae, “Just Keep Watching” (from the F1® movie) Best Pop: Ariana Grande, “brighter days ahead” Best Afrobeats: Tyla, “PUSH 2 START” Best Country: Megan Moroney, “Am I Okay?” Best K-Pop: Lisa ft. Doja Cat & RAYE – “Born Again”
Global Flavor:
The awards reflected the growing international influence on music, with major wins for Tyla (South Africa), ROSÉ (South Korea), and Lisa (Thailand), underscoring the VMAs’ global reach.
Final Take:
The night was a blend of historic firsts, cultural recognition, and global celebration. While Lady Gaga stole the spotlight with multiple wins, the VMAs also shone a light on legends like Mariah Carey and Ricky Martin, making the 2025 edition one for the books.
