Music lovers ‘must watch’ show of the year, the Video Music Awards, (VMAs) occurred on September 7th, 2025. The live event was held at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, featuring today’s top music artists. Renowned artists performed show-stopping numbers and made celebratory speeches when walking home with a VMA award for countless categories. Let’s look at the top moments from this year’s VMAs.
PERFORMANCES
The main reason most viewers tune into the Video Music Awards is to watch the performances by iconic and up-and-coming artists. This year, 13 acts were broadcast at the VMAs. Which ones were the ‘fan favorites?’
No disappointed ‘Tears’ were shed while watching Sabrina Carpenter’s performance of her new single, “Tears.” Carpenter is known for making catchy and memorable lyrics for her singles. In Carpenter’s performance, the VMA stage was transformed into the streets of New York during a downpour. From creating a spectacular dance break to showing support to the LGBTQ+ community by being accompanied by trans, non-binary, and drag performers – Carpenter delivered a memorable performance.
Conan Gray delivered a magical live rendition of the popular song “Vodka Cranberry,” while dressed as a modern, fairytale prince inspired by Romeo and Juliet. The audience was singing along to the ballad, showing a colorful crowd of light up bracelets swaying to the beat. Although still a growing artist, Gray belted out the iconic high note at the end of his performance– solidifying a top vocal performance.
Triple threat Tate McRae reminded VMA viewers of her ability to sing, dance and perform at the same time. McRae’s impressive air splits, combined with vocals in “Sports Car” and “Revolving Door” are being praised throughout all social media platforms. Mcrae’s dance background was shining through in her skilled coordination and flexible moves. The two iconic songs have been dominating the charts for weeks, and now Mcrae’s unbelievable mashup at the VMAs is dominating as Billboard’s #1 Top Performance at the 2025 VMAs.
AWARDS
The VMAs build up anticipation through viewers voting on which artist they want to win an iconic ‘Moon Man,’ or VMA trophy. This year, a combination of surprise and expected celebrations took the internet by storm. Here are a few of the top categories at the VMAs.
Best New Artist is a highly anticipated category, as most winners create the ‘Song of the Summer’ or trending songs online. This year, Alex Warren took home the award. Warren is best known for hit songs and ballads such as “Ordinary” and “Carry You Home.” Warren’s career has allowed him to share his journey from overcoming homelessness to making wholesome videos with wife and TikTok influencer Kouvr Annon. Warren was shocked to receive the award, but fans who have been supporters since viral TikTok videos in 2021 are celebrating this “well deserved win.”
Best Album usually serves as a competitive category, with each contestant holding multiple popular, record chart dominating hits. This year, world-renowned artists such as The Weekend, Bad Bunny and Kendrick Lamar fought to claim Best Album. Girl power came through when Sabrina Carpenter claimed the award for “Short n’ Sweet.” The album served as the ultimate summer playlist for 2025 and a hot concert tour for fans all over the world. In Carpenter’s acceptance speech, she highlighted her happiness in creating something that makes audiences smile and dance. The artist reminded viewers to continue listening to her new album, “Man’s Best Friend.”
The Video Music Awards honor songs, artists and music videos. Although most fans argue different winners for most categories, Ariana Grande continues her reign of the being the ultimate ‘pop princess.’ Grande has been setting and breaking records for over a decade and is continuing her legacy with 2024 contemporary studio album “Eternal Sunshine.” This year, Grande lead viewers through a beautiful storyline in her VMA winning short film “Brighter Days Ahead.” In 26 minutes, Grande explored the themes of memory and growth as an elderly version of herself, perceived by past memories. Grande showcased her famously powerful vocal ability and incredible acting skills. From starring on Nickelodeon TV shows, to playing Galinda on the big screens in movie musical “Wicked” and “Wicked: For Good,” Grande has always captivated audiences of all ages. Grande acquired her thirteenth VMA and gave a shoutout to her entire production crew. Grande hits the road again in the eagerly awaiting “Eternal Sunshine Tour” beginning in summer 2026.
MUST-SEE MOMENTS
Besides awards, speeches and performances, moments such as celebrity interactions and jaw-dropping outfits are sure to create online frenzies. This year, a combination of encounters and style make the 2025 VMAs a night to remember.
Mariah Carey is not only recognized at Christmas time with her iconic “All I Want for Christmas Is You” anthem, but year-round as one of the most well-known and awarded singers of all time. Carey has six Grammy Awards, 14 Billboard Awards, 10 American Music Awards and an addition to the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Now, Carey can add a VMA ‘Moon Man’ to her incredible repertoire. Carey received the Video Vanguard Award and performed a medley of her greatest hits.
In addition to Carey’s recognition, “Prince of Darkness” Ozzy Osbourne’s memory was honored through an extraordinary tribute that featured Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, YUNGBLUD, Nunu Bettencourt and host LL Cool J. This performance encouraged the at-home and in-person audiences to rock out. The tribute included renditions of “Crazy Train” and “Changes.”
The red carpet never goes unnoticed, especially from fashion-loving fans tuning into the MTV Preshow. This year, there was no shortage of attention-grabbing outfits. Rapper and singer, Doja Cat, is featured on multiple notable fashion outlets, such as Vogue, for being the most talked about outfit. Cat wore an 80’s glamour inspired dress, teasing her hair and adding MAC lipstick in a fiery shade of red. Global sensation girl group, Katseye, stunned in an ensemble dressing, while each maintaining their individuality. Looks included black fabrics, with a hint of sparkle.
The 2025 VMAs brought awards and recognition to many modern artists such as Megan Moroney and Sombr, along with a feel of ‘90’s Nostalgia.’ From Mariah Carey’s medley of hits to host LL Cool J bringing the swag, online spectators and decorated news outlets such as The Today Show expressed the feelings of nostalgia and unity from the 2025 Video Music Awards.
The VMAs will return in 2026, continuing to broadcast the event that is full of high-profile artists to millions of fans from all over the world, creating a legacy of recognizing the impact artists and their music have today.
