Full List of Winners at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) 2025
The 42nd annual MTV Video Music Awards took place on September 7, 2025, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, delivering another unforgettable night of music, culture, and star-studded performances. Hosted by hip-hop legend LL Cool J, the show celebrated the biggest names in global music while also honoring icons whose impact has shaped the industry.
This year, Lady Gaga dominated the evening. Leading with 12 nominations, the pop superstar walked away as the night’s biggest winner, scooping up four Moon Person trophies, including the prestigious Artist of the Year award. Her triumph further solidified her reputation as one of the most influential artists of her generation.
The night was also marked by powerful tributes. Mariah Carey received the long-awaited Video Vanguard Award, honoring her decades of musical excellence and unforgettable visuals. Hip-hop pioneer Busta Rhymes was recognized with the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award, while Ricky Martin made history as the first-ever recipient of the Latin Icon Award, underscoring his lasting influence on Latin music worldwide.
In the competitive categories, fans witnessed a diverse group of winners representing different genres and global sounds. Ariana Grande claimed two of the night’s biggest prizes — Video of the Year and Best Pop — for her hit single “Brighter Days Ahead.” The collaboration between Rosé and Bruno Mars shone brightly, with their track “APT.” being named Song of the Year.
Rising talent also had its moment. Alex Warren was crowned Best New Artist, signaling his growing impact on the music scene. Sabrina Carpenter took home Best Album for Short n’ Sweet, a project that has resonated strongly with fans and critics alike. Meanwhile, Tyla continued her global rise by winning Best Afrobeats, further establishing the genre as a dominant force on the international stage.
Video of the Year – Ariana Grande (“Brighter Days Ahead”)
Song of the Year – Rosé & Bruno Mars (“APT.”)
Best Pop – Ariana Grande (“Brighter Days Ahead”)
Best Album – Sabrina Carpenter (Short n’ Sweet)
Best New Artist – Alex Warren
Best Afrobeats – Tyla
Video Vanguard Award – Mariah Carey
Rock the Bells Visionary Award – Busta Rhymes
Latin Icon Award – Ricky Martin
The 2025 MTV VMAs once again proved to be more than just an award show — it was a celebration of creativity, diversity, and the ever-expanding reach of music across the globe.
Here’s a list of the winners:
Video of the Year, Presented by Burger King
Ariana Grande, “Brighter Days Ahead”
Artist of the Year
Lady Gaga
Song of the Year
Rosé & Bruno Mars, “APT.”
Best New Artist
Alex Warren
Best Pop Artist
Sabrina Carpenter
MTV Push Performance of the Year
January 2025: KATSEYE, “Touch”
Best Collaboration
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars, “Die With a Smile”
Best Pop
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars, “Die With a Smile”
Best Hip-Hop
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars, “Die With a Smile”
