MTV has officially revealed the first wave of performers for the 2025 MTV VMAs, confirming that Sabrina Carpenter, Alex Warren, J Balvin, DJ Snake, Ricky Martin, Busta Rhymes, and Sombr will take the stage. Many of them are also up in key categories. In particular, Sabrina earned eight nominations, including Video of the Year (“Manchild”) and Best Pop Artist. Notably, Sabrina returns to perform at the VMAs after her iconic performance last year, where she delivered a medley of “Please Please Please,” “Taste,” and “Espresso.”
In addition to high-energy performances, the VMAs will honor two legendary artists. Busta Rhymes will receive the inaugural MTV VMA Rock The Bells Visionary Award, a new recognition celebrating artists who have shaped culture through music and innovation. Meanwhile, Ricky Martin will be honored with the Latin Icon Award.
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This year’s VMAs will also be a historic night for hip-hop. LL Cool J is set to host the ceremony solo for the first time, making his return as the face of the event after co-hosting in 2022. The rap pioneer’s connection to the show runs deep: he first won Best Rap Video in 1991 for “Mama Said Knock You Out” and became the first rapper to receive the prestigious Video Vanguard Award in 1997. His comeback as host underscores the VMAs’ longstanding embrace of hip-hop as a cultural force.
The nominations themselves reflect just how competitive 2025 is shaping up to be. Lady Gaga leads with 12 nods, Bruno Mars follows with 11, and Kendrick Lamar lands 10. Rosé and Sabrina Carpenter are close behind with eight each, while Ariana Grande and The Weeknd secured seven nominations apiece. Billie Eilish, Charli XCX, Bad Bunny, Doechii, Ed Sheeran, Jelly Roll, Miley Cyrus, and Tate McRae are also among this year’s nominees.
For the first time, the VMAs will introduce two new categories: Best Country Artist and Best Pop Artist. The addition expands the show’s recognition of diverse music styles, giving artists in these genres their own spotlight. Broadcast live from UBS Arena in New York, the 2025 MTV VMAs will air simultaneously on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+.
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