MTV officially launched the buzz for the 2025 Video Music Awards with a major announcement on August 18, unveiling a dynamic mix of performers and introducing two brand-new special honors set to debut at this year’s ceremony. The network’s decisions reflect a clear effort to blend rising talent with musical icons, promising a vibrant celebration of global sound and cultural influence.
Among the headline performers revealed are pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter, genre-blending artist Sombr, viral singer-songwriter Alex Warren, reggaeton star J Balvin, renowned DJ and producer DJ Snake, Latin pop legend Ricky Martin, and hip-hop trailblazer Busta Rhymes. Each artist represents a different corner of the music landscape, underscoring the Video Music Awards’ ongoing mission to showcase diversity and innovation in performance.
Sabrina Carpenter, riding a wave of success, will return to the VMA stage as one of the year’s most nominated artists. She is expected to perform “Manchild,” a single from her highly anticipated upcoming album “Man’s Best Friend,” which has earned her a nomination for Video of the Year. The 2025 show could mark a defining moment in her career as she continues to evolve from Disney star to mature pop powerhouse.
Newcomers Sombr and Alex Warren will also take the stage in what will be their VMA performance debuts. Both artists have seen significant growth in fanbase and critical recognition over the past year and are now nominated in key breakout artist categories. Their participation signals MTV’s growing investment in digital-native performers who have successfully crossed over into the mainstream.
J Balvin will bring a distinctly Latin flair to the evening, teaming up with Justin Quiles and Lenny Tavárez to deliver his hit “Zun Zun.” He will also premiere a brand-new collaboration titled “Noventa” alongside DJ Snake. Their performance is expected to be a high-energy, visually dynamic set that bridges reggaeton and global electronic dance music.
The announcement also included two major honors being introduced at this year’s VMAs, each designed to pay tribute to artists whose work has shaped the industry and transcended cultural boundaries. Hip-hop icon Busta Rhymes will receive the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award. This new accolade recognizes artists whose careers have pushed the creative limits of music while influencing generations of performers. In addition to receiving the award, Busta Rhymes will take the stage for a performance that promises to reflect his decades of innovation and enduring presence in the music world.
Ricky Martin will be honored with MTV’s first-ever Latin Icon Award, a distinction created to celebrate artists who have significantly advanced Latin music and representation worldwide. Martin, whose career spans over three decades, has been instrumental in popularizing Latin pop on the global stage. From his early days with Menudo to his chart-topping solo hits, Martin has remained a symbol of Latin pride and artistic excellence. He is also set to perform, bringing his legendary stage presence to the VMA spotlight.
The 2025 Video Music Awards will be broadcast live from New York’s UBS Arena on Sunday, September 7 at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. For the first time, the VMAs will air not only on MTV but also on CBS, expanding its reach to a wider television audience. Streaming will also be available via Paramount+, marking an effort by MTV to ensure the ceremony is accessible across traditional and digital platforms. Hosting duties will be handled solely by LL Cool J, a seasoned performer and longtime VMA presence who will be taking on the role solo for the first time.
This year’s lineup and honorees underscore MTV’s commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly shifting musical landscape. By featuring performers who appeal to Gen Z audiences alongside longtime icons whose influence spans generations, the 2025 VMAs aim to create a space where past, present, and future coexist in celebration. Whether through star-making debuts or tribute-worthy moments of recognition, the event is shaping up to be one of the most eclectic and impactful VMAs in recent history.
The announcement, made on August 18, has generated widespread anticipation, setting the stage for a ceremony that will spotlight artistry, honor legacy, and amplify the voices shaping today’s global music culture. The 2025 Video Music Awards are expected to be more than just a spectacle—they promise to be a reflection of music’s evolving identity and a celebration of its enduring power. The original announcements were reported by People.