The 2025 Video Music Awards lit up screens Sunday with performances that may set the tone for the next era of performers. With awards to icons like Mariah Carey, a tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, this year's awards show was one of the best of the past decade. Here are a few of the award show’s highlights.
International girl-group KATSEYE helped start the VMAs with one of the most notable performances of the night, and they did not even hit the main stage. KATSEYE performed their hit songs “Gnarly” and “Gabriella” at the VMAs preshow, with the clips grossing over 1.5 million views on YouTube.
Pioneer rap artist LL Cool J hosted this year's award show, starting the show by introducing the award nominees and upcoming performances, only to be interrupted by Doja Cat. Doja Cat interrupted LL Cool J while dressed as Max Headroom, who Eminem also referenced in his song “Rap God,” to performher debut song “Jealous Type” with Kenny G.
Heavily inspired by ‘80s pop and R&B, the performance features influences of Janet Jackson, Paula Abdul and ‘80s house music. Showing the influence of the ‘80s and early ‘90s in her upcoming album.
Lola Young performed “Messy” in a powerful and raw experienceYoung is known for giving. Even with the short time on stage, Young gave a memorable performance.
Sabrina Carpenter performed “Tears” for the first time on stage since the Aug. 19 release of her seventh studio album “Man’s Best Friend.” Carpenter showed off her support of the LGBTQIA+ community in a beautiful performance, along with her dance skills. Carpenter won Best Pop Artist and Best Album for “Short n’ Sweet.”
There were also beautiful and creative performances from Sombr, Tate McRae and Conan Gray.
Gray performed “Vodka Cranberry” in a Romeo and Juliet-esque reenactment, with Corey Fogelmanis playing the role of Gray’s deceased lover whom he yearns to reunite with. Gray showed off his skilled vocals in this dramatic-romance performance.
McRae showcased her dancing background in her choreography-packed performance of her songs “Revolving Door” and “Sports Car.” The set-up of the stage allowed viewers to follow McRae as she traversed through the statuesque bodies of the dancers, almost feeling like a futuristic museum. Her performance of “Sports Car” in a pool of black sand was the highlight of her set, showing the perfect use of tangible props while performing.
Sombr performed“Back to Friends” and “12 to 12” in an underground music club stage setting, showing his versatility as an artist with both his ability to perform songs with emotional and ‘70s underground dance club vibes.
Lady Gaga gave what may be the best performance of the night, live from her concert in Madison Square Garden, as she performed “Abracadabra” and “Dead Dance.” Before the performance, Gaga won Artist of the Year. Gaga also won Best Collaboration with Bruno Mars for “Die With a Smile.”
Bruno Mars also won Song of the Year for his collaborative hit song “APT” with Blackpink’s Rosé.
Osbourne was honored in a beautiful tribute by YUNGBLUD, Steven Tyler, Joe Perry and Nuno Bettencourt. YUNGBLUD gave a jaw-dropping performance of “Crazy Train” and “Changes” that embodied the energy of Osbourne on stage.
A beautiful tribute to the legacy of Osbourne, YUNGBLUD joined Steven Tyler on stage to end the seven minute long tribute, as Tyler gave an emotional performance of “Mama, I’m coming home.”
In addition to the magnetic performances this year, many legends were honored for their accomplishments in their field.
Presented by Ariana Grande, Mariah Carey accepted the 2025 Video Vanguard Award, honoring her extraordinary career that led her to the title of Queen of Christmas. Carey also performed a series of her greatest hits.
Newly crowned Latin Icon, Ricky Martin performed his songs, “Livin' La Vida Loca", "Pégate", "Shake Your Bon-Bon", "Vente Pa' Ca,” “María” and "The Cup of Life.” Martin gave a lively performance that showcased the spirit of Latin music.
Rap Icon Busta Rhymes showcased his notable discography and legacy of the regional New York rap sound. His performance showcased his “OG” status in the rap industry, showing how he paved his way to being this year's recipient of the Rock the Bella Visionary Award.
Grande won Best Pop and Best Longform Video for “Brighter Days Ahead.” Newcomer Alex Warren won Best New Artist; his songs “Eternity” and “Ordinary” have serenaded the internet.
