Gaga and Grande Dominate MTV VMAs at UBS Arena

Lead: At the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, LL Cool J hosted the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday night, where Lady Gaga earned Artist of the Year and Ariana Grande won Video of the Year for “Brighter Days Ahead.”

Nut Graf: The VMAs spotlighted music’s biggest names and rising stars, featuring electrifying performances, legacy honors and two fan-voted category debuts-Best Country and Best Pop Artist-underscoring MTV’s commitment to celebrating diverse genres and fan engagement.

Major Award Winners

  • Artist of the Year: Lady Gaga (4 awards total) for her work on Mayhem and “Die With a Smile.”
  • Video of the Year: Ariana Grande for “Brighter Days Ahead,” also capturing Best Pop and Best Long Form Video.
  • Song of the Year: ROSÉ for “APT.”, her collaboration with Bruno Mars.
  • Album of the Year: Kendrick Lamar for GNX.

Special Honors and New Categories

  • Video Vanguard Award: Mariah Carey recognized for her decades of groundbreaking music videos.
  • Latin Icon Award: Ricky Martin celebrated for launching Latin music into the mainstream.
  • Rock the Bells Visionary Award: Busta Rhymes honored for his cultural impact.
  • New Fan-Voted Categories:
    • Best Pop Artist crowned Sabrina Carpenter
    • Best Country Video awarded to Megan Moroney for “Am I Okay?”

Show Highlights and Performances

  • Opening Act: Doja Cat and Kenny G’s saxophone duet energized the crowd.
  • Tribute Segment: Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, YUNGBLUD and Nuno Bettencourt paid homage to Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy.
  • Standout Sets:
    • Lady Gaga previewed her ongoing Mayhem Ball tour.
    • Tate McRae delivered a medley of “Revolving Door” and “Sports Car.”
    • Sabrina Carpenter showcased tracks from her acclaimed Short n’ Sweet album.

Red Carpet and Fashion

Celebrities embraced bold designer looks:

  • Tyla stunned in a Chanel mini-dress with gilded chains.
  • Conan Gray channeled pirate chic with ruffled denim and platform boots.

Sunday’s ceremony marked MTV’s first simulcast on CBS, reflecting its expanding audience reach. The new categories and legacy honors balanced veteran legends with emerging talent, reinforcing the VMAs’ reputation as music’s most unpredictable night.