From Busta Rhymes’ electrifying performance to Mariah Carey performing hit song “We Belong Together,” the 2025 Video Music Awards (VMAS) brought back early 2000s nostalgia. Hosted by LL Cool J at New York City’s UBS Arena, the VMAs celebrated some of the greatest names in music. Here are the evening’s highlights.
Mariah Carey received the Vanguard Music Award
The belle of the night was Mariah Carey, who received the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award — the highest honorary award given to artists and directors for their profound impact on music videos and popular culture. Presented by Ariana Grande, the VMA was Carey’s first. Mariah Carey addressed the audience, exclaiming, “What in the Sam Hill were you waiting for?”
Dazzling the crowd in her gold rhinestone jumpsuit, Carey performed hits from her album “Emancipation of Mimi” in celebration of the album’s 25th Anniversary. Carey also won Best R&B Video for her recent single “Type Dangerous.” Her upcoming album “Here For It All” is set to be released on September 26th.
Doja Cat 80s-Inspired Performance proved why she is an icon
Doja Cat opened the VMAs with an ’80s pop-themed performance that resembled Janet Jackson’s iconic style. She performed her song “Jealous Type” and featured Kenny G in a saxophone solo.
Lady Gaga swept the VMAs with Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, and more
Lady Gaga led the night with the most VMA nominations and went on to win Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration for “Die with a Smile” featuring Bruno Mars. She also won Best Art Direction and Best Direction for “Abracadabra.”
Tate McRae cemented herself as a force to be reckoned with
Tate McRae graced the crowd with performances of “Sports Car” and “Revolving Door.” In a white dazzling top and shorts, McRae and her dancers performed in a black sandpit with booms of fire. McRae has arguably cemented herself as the Britney Spears of Gen-Z with her commanding stage presence, versatility and agility. McRae went on to win VMAs for Best Editing and Song of the Summer.
Sabrina Carpenter paid tribute to the LGBTQIA+ Community
Sabrina Carpenter performed a New York City ballroom-inspired performance featuring her hit single “Tears” from her seventh studio album “Man’s Best Friend.” Carpenter used her performance to advocate for gender expansive and queer communities with signs “If you hate, you’ll never get laid,” “Protect Trans Rights,” “Support Drag” and “Love Each Other.” Carpenter later swept the VMAs, winning awards for Best Pop Artist, Best Album and Best Visual Effects.
Busta Rhymes receives first-ever VMA Rock the Boat Award
Rap legend Busta Rhymes received the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award. In a 90s and early 2000s rap-themed performance, Rhymes performed hits “Pass the Courvoisier Part II,” “Touch It (Remix),” “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See” and “Scenario.” He was joined on stage by Joyner Lucas, Papoose, GloRilla and hypeman Spliff Star.
KATSEYE is trailblazing to icon status in the music industry
KATSEYE won Best Push Performance of the Year for “Touch.” After gracing the red carpet in mini dresses with touches of rose and silver, KATSEYE graced the VMA Pre-Show stage to perform their hit “Gnarly” in a high-energy performance. With sharp dance moves and unified movement, KATSEYE answered why they are a rising powerhouse in the music industry.
Latto and Ice Spice share the stage
After a long-rumored feud, previous VMA winners Latto and Ice Spice stunned the crowd as they presented Best Push Performance of the Year to KATSEYE. Both women complimented each other on their outfits and promoted their recent song collaboration “GYATT.”
Ozzy Osbourne receives an emotional tribute
Musicians Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, YUNGBLUD and Nuno Bettencourt performed an electrifying tribute to the late heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne who passed away in July. Featuring songs “Crazy Train,” “Changes” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” the rockstars had the audience on their feet as they honored the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne.