The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards lit up New York’s UBS Arena on September 7 with glitz, drama, and show-stopping performances that had fans buzzing.
The night kicked off with Doja Cat channeling an ’80s vibe in her nostalgic performance of Jealous Type. Sabrina Carpenter brought the house down with a fiery rendition of Tears, while Tate McRae delivered Revolving Door to screaming fans.
Lady Gaga, never one to play it safe, turned the arena upside down with a gothic spectacle featuring Abracadabra and Dead Dance.
It wasn’t just about the music. It was about the legends.
Mariah Carey, finally receiving her long-overdue Video Vanguard Award, had the crowd on their feet with a medley of her biggest hits. “What in the Sam Hill were you waiting for?” she quipped while accepting the honor.
Busta Rhymes became the first-ever recipient of the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, while Ricky Martin made history as the inaugural Latin Icon Award winner, performing his timeless classics.
Other highlights included performances by Alex Warren, Megan Moroney, and Yungblud, who paid a bold tribute to Ozzy Osbourne.
Big Winners of the Night
Video of the Year: Ariana Grande – Brighter Days Ahead
Artist of the Year: Lady Gaga
Song of the Year: ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – APT.
Best New Artist: Alex Warren
Best Pop Artist: Sabrina Carpenter
Best Collaboration: Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – Die with a Smile
Best Hip-Hop: Doechii – Anxiety
Best R&B: Mariah Carey – Type Dangerous
Best Afrobeats: Tyla – Push 2 Start
From emotional tributes to fashion statements and history-making wins, this year’s VMAs proved once again why they remain one of music’s most electrifying nights.