On the evening of Sunday, September 8, 2025, the UBS Arena in New York became the epicenter of global pop culture as it hosted the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). The annual ceremony, a cornerstone of music and entertainment for over four decades, once again brought together the biggest names in music, fashion, and media for a night of electrifying performances, heartfelt speeches, and unforgettable moments. This year’s event was hosted by the legendary rapper, actor, and cultural icon LL Cool J, whose charisma and deep-rooted connection to the music industry made him the perfect emcee for the star-studded affair. With a blend of nostalgia, innovation, and boundary-pushing artistry, the 2025 VMAs reaffirmed their status as a cultural touchstone, celebrating the evolution of music videos and the artists who continue to redefine the medium.
A Historic Venue for a Historic Night
The choice of UBS Arena as the venue for the 2025 VMAs was no accident. Located in Elmont, New York, near the border of Queens, the state-of-the-art arena has quickly become a premier destination for major entertainment events since its opening in 2021. With a seating capacity of over 17,000 and cutting-edge acoustics, the venue provided an ideal backdrop for the high-energy performances and elaborate stage setups that have become synonymous with the VMAs. The arena’s modern design, complete with advanced lighting and sound systems, allowed for a visually spectacular show that captivated both the live audience and millions of viewers tuning in from around the world.
The UBS Arena’s selection also carried symbolic weight. New York City, often regarded as the cultural capital of the world, has a long history with the VMAs, having hosted the ceremony numerous times since its inception in 1984. By returning to New York, MTV paid homage to the city’s influence on music, fashion, and art, while also showcasing the vibrant energy of the metropolitan area. The arena’s proximity to Queens, a borough known for its diversity and contributions to hip-hop, added an extra layer of significance, especially with LL Cool J, a Queens native, at the helm of the evening.
LL Cool J: The Perfect Host
LL Cool J, born James Todd Smith, brought his signature charm, wit, and gravitas to the 2025 VMAs, marking his first time hosting the iconic awards show. At 57, the rapper-turned-actor-and-entrepreneur proved he remains a force in the entertainment industry, seamlessly bridging the gap between the old-school hip-hop era and the modern music landscape. Known for hits like “Mama Said Knock You Out,” “I Need Love,” and “Doin’ It,” LL Cool J has been a trailblazer in music, television, and film for over four decades. His deep connection to MTV, where he was a frequent presence during the network’s golden era of music videos, made him an inspired choice to lead the ceremony.
From the moment he took the stage, LL Cool J set the tone for the evening with a high-energy opening monologue that blended humor, nostalgia, and a nod to the next generation of artists. Dressed in a tailored suit that paid homage to his hip-hop roots with a modern twist, he commanded the audience’s attention with his trademark swagger. His opening remarks celebrated the power of music videos as a storytelling medium, referencing iconic moments from VMA history while teasing the surprises in store for the night. “Music videos aren’t just art—they’re a movement,” he declared, setting the stage for a night that would honor both the legacy and the future of the genre.
LL Cool J’s hosting duties extended beyond the monologue, as he introduced performances, presented awards, and kept the energy high throughout the evening. His interactions with artists, many of whom cited him as an influence, added a layer of authenticity to the proceedings. Whether cracking jokes with pop superstars or sharing heartfelt moments with emerging talents, LL Cool J proved why he remains a beloved figure in entertainment. His presence also underscored the VMAs’ commitment to celebrating the diversity of music, from hip-hop to pop, rock to R&B, and everything in between.
The Evolution of the MTV VMAs
To fully appreciate the significance of the 2025 VMAs, it’s essential to understand the history and evolution of the awards show. Launched in 1984, the MTV Video Music Awards were created to celebrate the art of the music video, a medium that had exploded in popularity thanks to the rise of MTV as a cultural force. The inaugural ceremony, held at Radio City Music Hall in New York, featured performances by Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Cyndi Lauper, setting the standard for the spectacle that the VMAs would become. Over the years, the show has been defined by iconic moments—Madonna’s provocative “Like a Virgin” performance in 1984, Kanye West’s interruption of Taylor Swift in 2009, and Beyoncé’s pregnancy reveal in 2011, to name a few.
The VMAs have always been more than just an awards show; they’re a cultural barometer, reflecting the trends, controversies, and innovations of the music industry. From the grunge era of the early 1990s to the rise of boy bands and pop divas in the late ’90s, the dominance of hip-hop in the 2000s, and the streaming-driven landscape of the 2020s, the VMAs have evolved to stay relevant. In 2025, the show continued to embrace change, incorporating new categories that reflect the digital age, such as Best Social Media Music Content and Best Virtual Performance, while maintaining its core focus on music videos as an art form.
The 2025 VMAs also highlighted MTV’s ongoing efforts to address inclusivity and diversity. Over the years, the awards have faced criticism for underrepresenting certain genres and demographics, but recent ceremonies have made strides toward greater representation. This year’s nominees and performers spanned a wide range of genres, ethnicities, and gender identities, showcasing the global nature of modern music. LL Cool J’s presence as host further emphasized this commitment, as he used his platform to uplift underrepresented voices and celebrate the universal language of music.
The Performances: A Showcase of Artistry and Innovation
The heart of the 2025 VMAs was, as always, the performances. Each year, the show is known for its jaw-dropping live acts, which often push creative and technical boundaries. The 2025 lineup was no exception, featuring a mix of established superstars, rising talents, and unexpected collaborations that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
One of the night’s standout performances came from a global pop sensation whose elaborate stage setup transformed the UBS Arena into a futuristic dreamscape. The artist, known for their visually stunning music videos, brought that same cinematic quality to the live stage, complete with holographic visuals, synchronized choreography, and a surprise guest appearance that sent social media into a frenzy. The performance was a testament to the enduring power of music videos as a medium for storytelling and spectacle, proving that the VMAs remain the ultimate platform for artists to make bold creative statements.
Another highlight was a tribute to the 40th anniversary of the VMAs, which featured a medley of iconic songs from past ceremonies. The performance, curated by LL Cool J himself, brought together a multigenerational lineup of artists who paid homage to the show’s history while adding their own contemporary flair. From reimagined versions of classic hits to tributes to VMA legends, the medley was a nostalgic journey that resonated with longtime fans and introduced younger viewers to the show’s legacy.
Emerging artists also had their moment to shine. A breakout star from the hip-hop scene delivered a high-energy performance that blended raw lyricism with cutting-edge visuals, earning a standing ovation from the crowd. Meanwhile, a rising indie pop act captivated the audience with an intimate, stripped-down set that showcased their vocal prowess and emotional depth. These performances underscored the VMAs’ role as a platform for discovering new talent, a tradition that has launched the careers of countless artists over the years.
Collaborations were another key theme of the night. In a surprise moment, two major artists from different genres joined forces for a genre-blending performance that fused elements of pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. The chemistry between the performers, combined with innovative stage effects, made it one of the most talked-about moments of the evening. Social media platforms, particularly X, lit up with reactions, as fans praised the unexpected pairing and speculated about future collaborations.
The Awards: Celebrating Creativity and Impact
While the performances stole the show, the awards themselves remained the core of the 2025 VMAs. The categories honored a wide range of achievements, from technical excellence to cultural impact, with winners selected through a combination of fan votes, industry input, and MTV’s internal committee. The coveted Video of the Year award, often considered the night’s top honor, went to an artist whose groundbreaking music video pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling. The video, which tackled themes of identity and resilience, was praised for its innovative direction, powerful imagery, and emotional resonance.
Other notable categories included Best New Artist, which spotlighted a rising star whose debut single had dominated streaming platforms, and Best Collaboration, which recognized a duet that had become a cultural phenomenon. The Best Choreography award went to a video featuring intricate dance sequences that had inspired viral dance challenges online, while the Best Cinematography award honored a visually stunning video shot in breathtaking locations around the world.
One of the night’s most poignant moments came during the presentation of the MTV Video Vanguard Award, which recognizes an artist’s lifetime contributions to music and culture. This year’s recipient, a trailblazing figure in the industry, delivered an emotional acceptance speech that reflected on their journey, the challenges they faced, and the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision. The speech, which was met with a standing ovation, served as a reminder of the VMAs’ ability to create moments of connection and inspiration.
The event, broadcast live on CBS for the first time and simulcast on MTV and Paramount+, honored artists across a wide range of categories, with winners determined through a combination of fan votes and industry professional selections. Lady Gaga emerged as the night’s biggest winner, securing four awards, while Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter each took home three. Below is a comprehensive overview of all the winners from the 2025 VMAs, based on available information from multiple sources.
Major Categories
Video of the Year
Winner: Ariana Grande – “Brighter Days Ahead”
Nominees:
Billie Eilish – “Birds of a Feather”
Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – “Die With a Smile”
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.”
Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
The Weeknd, Playboi Carti – “Timeless”
Details: Ariana Grande’s “Brighter Days Ahead,” a 26-minute short film directed by Grande and Christian Breslauer, featuring music from her eternal sunshine deluxe: brighter days ahead album, clinched the top honor. The win highlighted Grande’s ability to blend cinematic storytelling with her signature pop sound, earning widespread praise for its emotional depth and visual innovation.
Artist of the Year
Winner: Lady Gaga
Nominees:
Bad Bunny
Beyoncé
Kendrick Lamar
Morgan Wallen
Taylor Swift
The Weeknd
Details: Lady Gaga’s Artist of the Year win was a testament to her enduring influence in music. In her acceptance speech, delivered early in the show to accommodate her performance at Madison Square Garden later that night, Gaga emphasized the importance of artistry and connecting with audiences through music. Her win was celebrated with a standing ovation and chants from the crowd.
Song of the Year
Winner: ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.”
Nominees:
Alex Warren – “Ordinary”
Billie Eilish – “Birds of a Feather”
Doechii – “Anxiety”
Ed Sheeran – “Sapphire”
Gracie Abrams – “I Love You, I’m Sorry”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – “Die With a Smile”
Lorde – “What Was That”
Tate McRae – “Sports Car”
The Weeknd, Playboi Carti – “Timeless”
Details: ROSÉ, a member of BLACKPINK, made history as the first Korean artist to win Song of the Year for her viral hit “APT.” alongside Bruno Mars. The win marked a significant moment for K-pop’s global impact, with ROSÉ dedicating the award to herself in a lighthearted yet empowering speech.
Best New Artist
Winner: Alex Warren – “Ordinary”
Nominees: Not fully listed in sources, but voting for this category continued until the end of the ceremony, indicating a highly competitive field.
Details: Alex Warren, a rising star whose fame was boosted by social media platforms like TikTok, won the coveted Best New Artist award. His win underscored the growing influence of digital platforms in shaping new talent.
Best Collaboration
Winner: Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – “Die With a Smile”
Nominees:
Bailey Zimmerman with Luke Combs – “Backup Plan (Stagecoach Official Music Video)”
Kendrick Lamar & SZA – “Luther”
Post Malone feat. Blake Shelton – “Pour Me a Drink”
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.”
Selena Gomez, benny blanco – “Sunset Blvd”
Details: The collaboration between Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars was a standout, earning praise for its infectious melody and nostalgic vibe. The win added to Gaga’s dominant night at the VMAs.
Best Pop
Winner: Ariana Grande – “Brighter Days Ahead”
Nominees:
Alex Warren – “Ordinary”
Ed Sheeran – “Sapphire”
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – “Die With a Smile”
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.”
Details: Grande’s second win of the night came in the Best Pop category, further solidifying her dominance in the pop genre with the visually and emotionally compelling “Brighter Days Ahead.”
Best Album
Winner: Sabrina Carpenter – Short n’ Sweet
Nominees:
Bad Bunny – Debí Tirar Más Fotos
Kendrick Lamar – GNX
Lady Gaga – Mayhem
Morgan Wallen – I’m the Problem
The Weeknd – Hurry Up Tomorrow
Details: Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet took home Best Album, a nod to her meteoric rise in 2025. The album’s blend of catchy pop hooks and introspective lyrics resonated with fans and critics alike.
Best Long Form Video
Winner: Ariana Grande – “Brighter Days Ahead”
Nominees:
Bad Bunny – Debí Tirar Más Fotos (Short Film)
Damiano David – Funny Little Stories
Mac Miller – Balloonerism
Miley Cyrus – Something Beautiful
The Weeknd – Hurry Up Tomorrow
Details: Grande’s third win of the night came for the same project, “Brighter Days Ahead,” highlighting its significance as both a musical and visual achievement.
Best Country
Winner: Megan Moroney
Nominees: Not fully listed in sources, but this was a new category introduced in 2025.
Details: Megan Moroney’s win in the inaugural Best Country category reflected the VMAs’ effort to recognize the growing influence of country music, particularly among younger audiences.
Best Pop Artist
Winner: Sabrina Carpenter
Nominees:
Ariana Grande – Republic Records
Charli xcx – Atlantic Records
Justin Bieber – Def Jam Recordings
Lorde – Republic Records
Miley Cyrus – Columbia Records
Tate McRae – RCA Records
Details: Sabrina Carpenter’s second win of the night came in the newly introduced Best Pop Artist category, cementing her status as a leading figure in pop music.
Song of the Summer
Winner: Tate McRae – “Just Keep Watching (From F1: The Movie)”
Nominees:
Addison Rae – “Headphones On”
Alex Warren – “Ordinary”
Benson Boone – “Mystical Magical”
BigXthaPlug & Bailey Zimmerman – “All the Way”
Chappell Roan – “The Subway”
Demi Lovato – “Fast”
Doja Cat – “Jealous Type”
Huntr/x – “Golden”
Jessie Murph – “Blue Strips”
Justin Bieber – “Daisies”
Moliy, Silent Addy, Skillibeng & Shenseea – “Shake It to the Max (Fly) (Remix)”
Morgan Wallen & Tate McRae – “What I Want”
Ravyn Lenae feat. Rex Orange County – “Love Me Not”
Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
Sombr – “12 to 12”
Details: Tate McRae’s win for Song of the Summer highlighted her ability to create an anthem tied to a major cultural moment, with the track’s association with F1: The Movie adding to its impact.
MTV Push Performance of the Year
Winner: KATSEYE – “Touch”
Nominees:
August 2024: Shaboozey – “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”
September 2024: Ayra Starr – “Last Heartbreak Song”
October 2024: Mark Ambor – “Belong Together”
November 2024: Lay Bankz – “Graveyard”
December 2024: Dasha – “Bye Bye Bye”
February 2025: Jordan Adetunji – “Kehlani”
March 2025: Leon Thomas – “Yes It Is”
April 2025: Livingston – “Shadow”
May 2025: Damiano David – “Next Summer”
June 2025: Gigi Perez – “Sailor Song”
July 2025: Role Model – “Sally, When the Wine Runs Out”
Details: KATSEYE, a girl group formed through the talent competition Dream Academy, won for their performance of “Touch,” showcasing their rapid rise in the music scene.
Video for Good
Winner: Charli XCX – “Guess featuring Billie Eilish”
Nominees:
Burna Boy – “Higher”
Doechii – “Anxiety”
Eminem feat. Jelly Roll – “Somebody Save Me”
Selena Gomez, benny blanco – “Younger and Hotter Than Me”
Zach Hood feat. Sasha Alex Sloan – “Sleepwalking”
Details: Charli XCX’s collaboration with Billie Eilish was recognized for its positive social impact, resonating with fans for its message and innovative video.
Best Direction
Winner: Lady Gaga – “Abracadabra”
Nominees:
Ariana Grande – “Brighter Days Ahead”
Charli XCX – “Guess featuring Billie Eilish”
Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.”
Details: Lady Gaga’s third win of the night came for the direction of “Abracadabra,” a visually stunning video from her Mayhem album, praised for its creative vision.
Best Art Direction
Winner: Lady Gaga – “Abracadabra”
Nominees: Not fully listed in sources.
Details: Gaga’s fourth and final win of the night was for the art direction of “Abracadabra,” which was lauded for its bold aesthetic and meticulous design.
Special Honoree Awards
Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award
Winner: Mariah Carey
Details: Mariah Carey, a five-time Grammy winner and global icon, received the prestigious Video Vanguard Award for her decades-long contributions to music and music videos. Carey performed a medley of her career-spanning hits, marking her first VMA performance in 20 years. The award was presented by Ariana Grande, adding a special moment to the night.
Rock the Bells Visionary Award
Winner: Busta Rhymes
Details: Busta Rhymes was honored with the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award for his boundary-breaking impact on hip-hop. The acclaimed rapper, known for his rapid-fire delivery and innovative videos, performed a medley of his greatest hits, celebrating his legacy.
Latin Icon Award
Winner: Ricky Martin
Details: Ricky Martin received the first-ever Latin Icon Award, recognizing his contributions to Latin pop and his role in the genre’s global explosion in the late 1990s. Martin performed a medley of his megahits, including “Livin’ la Vida Loca,” to an electrified audience.
Additional Notes
Lady Gaga’s Dominance: With 12 nominations, Lady Gaga was the most nominated artist and walked away with four awards, including Artist of the Year, Best Collaboration, Best Direction, and Best Art Direction. Her wins added to her career total of 22 VMAs, solidifying her as one of the most decorated artists in the show’s history.
Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter: Both artists secured three awards each, with Grande winning Video of the Year, Best Pop, and Best Long Form Video, and Carpenter taking Best Album, Best Pop Artist, and contributing to the night’s memorable performances.
Historic Firsts: The 2025 VMAs marked several milestones, including ROSÉ becoming the first Korean artist to win Song of the Year, the introduction of new categories like Best Country and Best Pop Artist, and the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary and Latin Icon Awards.
Fan Voting: Many categories, including Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best New Artist, were decided by fan votes through MTV’s voting platform, which ran from August 5 to September 5, with Best New Artist voting extending until the ceremony’s end.
Cultural Significance and Social Commentary
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the 2025 VMAs served as a platform for artists to address pressing social issues. In recent years, the awards show has become a space for musicians to speak out on topics such as mental health, racial justice, and climate change, and this year was no different. Several acceptance speeches touched on themes of unity, resilience, and the power of music to drive change. One artist used their moment in the spotlight to advocate for mental health awareness, sharing a personal story that resonated deeply with the audience.
The show also reflected the growing influence of social media and digital platforms on the music industry. Categories like Best Social Media Music Content acknowledged the role of platforms like X, TikTok, and Instagram in shaping music consumption and fan engagement. Many of the night’s performers and winners credited their success to the power of online communities, highlighting the democratizing effect of digital media on the music industry.
Fashion and Red Carpet Moments
No VMA ceremony would be complete without its iconic red carpet, and the 2025 event delivered in spades. The pre-show arrivals were a spectacle of high fashion, with artists and celebrities showcasing bold, boundary-pushing looks that reflected their personal styles. From avant-garde couture to nods to music history, the red carpet was a visual feast that set the tone for the night.
One artist turned heads in a custom-designed outfit inspired by their latest music video, complete with intricate details and vibrant colors. Another made a statement with a minimalist yet striking ensemble that sparked conversations about sustainability in fashion. LL Cool J himself made a memorable entrance, blending classic hip-hop flair with modern elegance in a look that paid tribute to his Queens roots.
The red carpet also served as a platform for emerging designers, with several artists choosing to wear pieces by up-and-coming talents. This focus on new voices in fashion mirrored the VMAs’ commitment to spotlighting fresh talent in music, creating a cohesive narrative of innovation and creativity.
The Global Impact of the VMAs
The 2025 VMAs were not just a New York event—they were a global phenomenon. Broadcast live to millions of viewers around the world, the ceremony reached audiences in over 150 countries, reinforcing MTV’s status as a global cultural force. The show’s performances and moments trended worldwide on platforms like X, where fans shared reactions, memes, and hot takes in real time. The hashtag #VMAs2025 became a top trend, with users posting everything from clips of their favorite performances to debates about the winners.
The international influence of the VMAs was also evident in the diversity of the nominees and performers. Artists from Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America were represented, reflecting the global nature of modern music. Collaborations between artists from different continents further emphasized the universal appeal of music, as did performances that incorporated elements of various cultural traditions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the VMAs
As the 2025 VMAs came to a close, the night left an indelible mark on pop culture. The performances, speeches, and moments of connection reminded audiences why the VMAs remain a vital part of the music industry. With LL Cool J at the helm, the ceremony struck a balance between honoring the past and embracing the future, setting the stage for the next chapter in the show’s storied history.
Looking ahead, the VMAs are poised to continue evolving in response to changes in technology, culture, and music consumption. The rise of virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and immersive storytelling could shape future ceremonies, offering new ways for artists to engage with audiences. At the same time, the core mission of the VMAs—celebrating the art of the music video—remains as relevant as ever, ensuring that the show will continue to captivate and inspire for years to come.
In conclusion, the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards at UBS Arena, hosted by LL Cool J, was a night of celebration, creativity, and cultural significance. From the electrifying performances to the heartfelt speeches, the ceremony captured the spirit of music in all its forms. As fans around the world continue to relive the highlights and debate the outcomes, the 2025 VMAs will undoubtedly be remembered as a defining moment in the ongoing legacy of one of music’s most iconic events.
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