Full List of Winners at the 2025 MTV VMAs

The 2025 MTV VMAs (Video Music Awards) unfolded on September 7 at New York’s UBS Arena, broadcast live on CBS and streamed via Paramount+. Hosted by LL Cool J, this edition stood out for blending dazzling performances, genre-bending winners, and groundbreaking achievements.

Lady Gaga led the evening with 12 nominations and walked away with four Moon Persons—most notably claiming Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration for her work on “Die with a Smile” with Bruno Mars. Her stage return from Madison Square Garden further sealed her dominance.

Record-Breaking Rosé and Major Trophies at the MTV VMAs

Rosé of BLACKPINK made history, becoming the first solo K-pop artist to win Song of the Year for her collaboration “APT.” with Bruno Mars—a landmark moment for the genre’s global rise.

Meanwhile, Ariana Grande earned the coveted Video of the Year and Best Pop Video for “Brighter Days Ahead,” delivering a heartfelt acceptance speech that resonated with emotion and resilience.

New Categories & Emerging Stars at MTV VMAs

MTV expanded its voting reach by introducing Best Country and Best Pop Artist, both fan-voted—demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity and genre diversity. Country newcomer Megan Moroney won the inaugural Best Country award, while Sabrina Carpenter earned Best Pop Artist as well as Album of the Year for Short n’ Sweet.

Alex Warren captured Best New Artist, securing his place in the mainstream spotlight. Tate McRae took Song of the Summer with “Just Keep Watching.”

Genre Beats—Every Music Form Elevated

Awards across musical styles reflected international diversity.

• Best Pop went to Ariana Grande’s “Brighter Days Ahead”.
• Best Hip-Hop honored Doechii’s “Anxiety.”
• Coldplay won Best Rock for “All My Love.”
• Best R&B was awarded to Mariah Carey’s “Type Dangerous.”
• Best Latin went to Shakira’s “Soltera.”
• Afrobeats star Tyla secured Best Afrobeats for “Push 2 Start.”
• Representing K-pop, Lisa, featuring Doja Cat & Raye, won Best K-Pop for “Born Again.”

Legacy Honors and Tributes at the MTV VMAs

The MTV VMAs night paid homage to music legends:

• Mariah Carey received the Video Vanguard Award, performing a medley of hits like “We Belong Together.”
• Ricky Martin was celebrated with the Latin Icon Award, bringing legendary flair to the stage.
• Busta Rhymes earned the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, closing the night with energy and esteem.

This year’s VMAs served as a cultural milestone—honoring heritage acts, elevating new voices, and reflecting the shifting pulse of global music. From Rosé’s breakthrough to Gaga’s enduring resonance, and the inclusion of fan-driven genre categories, MTV affirmed the evolving, inclusive panorama of contemporary music.

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