The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards are shaping up to be one of the most star-studded shows in recent memory. MTV has officially unveiled the second round of performers, adding another wave of chart-topping artists to the already packed lineup. Doja Cat, Tate McRae, Post Malone, Conan Gray, and Jelly Roll will all hit the stage on September 7 at UBS Arena in New York, bringing even more variety to this year’s live performances.
This announcement follows last week’s reveal of the first group of performers, which included Sabrina Carpenter, Alex Warren, J Balvin, DJ Snake, Ricky Martin, Busta Rhymes, and Sombr. Many of these names are also nominated in major categories. Sabrina Carpenter, in particular, enters the ceremony with eight nominations, including Video of the Year for “Manchild” and Best Pop Artist. Tate McRae and Jelly Roll are also among top nominees, securing four nominations each. Notably, Doja Cat is nominated for Best K-Pop (“Born Again”), while Post Malone landed a nomination for Best Collaboration with “Pour Me a Drink.”
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This year’s VMAs will also spotlight legacy and innovation. Busta Rhymes is set to receive the inaugural Rock The Bells Visionary Award, celebrating artists who have shaped culture through music, while Ricky Martin will be honored with the Latin Icon Award for his decades-long impact on global pop. Mariah Carey will be honored with the Vanguard Award.
Beyond the performances, the 2025 VMAs are a showcase of how competitive the music landscape has become. Lady Gaga leads with 12 nominations, followed by Bruno Mars with 11 and Kendrick Lamar with 10. Rosé and Sabrina Carpenter earned eight each, while Ariana Grande and The Weeknd collected seven apiece. Other nominees include Billie Eilish, Charli XCX, Bad Bunny, Doechii, Jelly Roll, Miley Cyrus, Ed Sheeran, and Tate McRae.
For the first time in its history, the VMAs will introduce two new categories: Best Country Artist and Best Pop Artist, reflecting the evolving diversity of global music. With LL Cool J returning as solo host for the first time, the ceremony promises to bridge generations while spotlighting the biggest names of today.
The 2025 MTV VMAs will broadcast live on MTV, CBS, and Paramount+ on September 7.
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