The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) of 2025 marked a night of triumph for Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, and Sabrina Carpenter, who each took home two coveted Moonman trophies in a show that felt notably subdued yet impactful. This year’s ceremony, held at Long Island’s UBS Arena, celebrated female empowerment and showcased a shift in the recognition of global music acts.
Key Highlights and Winners
Lady Gaga, the most nominated artist with a record 12 nods, kicked off the evening by winning Artist of the Year over a stellar lineup that included Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, and Beyoncé, all of whom were notably absent. Dressed in a stunning baroque black gown, Gaga dedicated her award to her audience and her partner, Michael Polansky. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, she emphasized the importance of self-reliance and artistic expression amid life’s chaos.
Sabrina Carpenter, who captured Album of the Year for "Short n’ Sweet," also won Best Pop Artist. Meanwhile, Ariana Grande secured the top honor of the night, Video of the Year, for her poignant music video "Brighter Days Ahead." In her acceptance speech, Grande deeply connected with her audience, emphasizing the importance of healing and the ongoing journey toward embracing one’s true self.
Other notable winners included Rosé from Blackpink, who won Song of the Year for "Apt" with Bruno Mars, and the duo’s collaboration on "Die With A Smile," which earned Best Collaboration. Rosé’s emotional acceptance speech struck a chord, inspiring young artists to continue pursuing their dreams regardless of the obstacles.
A Celebration of Female Artists
The 2025 VMAs heavily featured female artists, illustrating a continuing trend of recognizing women in the music industry. Performances from Doja Cat, Tate McRae, and Carpenter further highlighted the evening’s focus on female confidence and talent. Carpenter’s performance of “Tears” stood out as she was accompanied by a lineup of RuPaul’s Drag Race stars, delivering a powerful statement in support of trans rights.
Notably, the show included segments dedicated to recognizing legacy acts. Latin pop icon Ricky Martin, who received a lifetime achievement award, performed a medley of his hits, reaffirming the significance of his 40-year career in music. In another honor, Busta Rhymes was celebrated for his contributions to hip-hop with the Rock the Bells Visionary Award. His medley performance, featuring high-energy collaborations with GloRilla and Joyner Lucas, was a reminder of his lasting impact on the genre.
Honoring Legends and Remembering Icons
The evening also paid tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away earlier in July. Yungblud honored Osbourne with classic Black Sabbath tracks, fostering a sense of nostalgia for both long-time fans and new listeners. This segment was a reminder of the indelible legacy left by Osbourne in the music world.
Mariah Carey was presented with the Video Vanguard Award by Grande, becoming the eighth consecutive woman to receive this accolade. Carey’s humorous acknowledgment of her first VMA win added a lighthearted touch to the evening, as she reflected on her prolific career and the ever-evolving landscape of music.
A Shift in Tone for the VMAs
Once known for its high-energy performances and culture-defining moments, the VMAs seem to have embraced a more reflective and inclusive tone in recent years. The lack of star power in attendance was palpable, but the night remained significant due to its focus on personal and emotional narratives. The ceremony featured a mix of mainstream and emerging talent, highlighting the changing dynamics of popular music, which has increasingly embraced global influences.
Globalization and Genre Blending in Music
The 2025 VMAs aptly showcased the globalization of music, with artists from diverse backgrounds making a mark on the industry. The collaborations between artists like J Balvin and DJ Snake, as well as Katseye’s recognition for their performance, signify a burgeoning acceptance and celebration of fusion genres. This shift reflects the evolving landscape of popular music, where boundaries between genres are increasingly blurred.
The show’s recognition of both established acts and up-and-coming artists signals an ambitious effort to foster diversity and inclusivity in the music industry. The ongoing "country-ification" of pop was represented through Post Malone and Jelly Roll’s performance, depicting how genres intermingle and create new forms of expression.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the MTV VMAs 2025 highlighted a pivotal moment in the music industry, emphasizing female artistry and the importance of inclusion. With Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, and Sabrina Carpenter leading the way, the night celebrated personal journeys, resilience, and progress in a musical landscape that is constantly evolving. The muted nature of the awards could represent a move toward introspection and significant dialogue surrounding the future of music and its cultural implications.
While the absence of some major stars drove a quieter tone, the VMAs still managed to resonate with audiences, showcasing new talents and honoring legendary figures who have paved the way for future generations. The ceremony was a reminder that even in silence, voices can echo powerfully, igniting passion, inspiration, and a collective hope for brighter days ahead.
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