The VMAs 2025 Winners list is finally here, and it’s nothing short of spectacular. This year’s MTV Video Music Awards not only celebrated the biggest names in global music.
But also introduced special honors and unforgettable performances that lit up the UBS Arena. Whether you’re a diehard Lady Gaga fan, rooting for Rosé & Bruno Mars, or waiting to see Mariah Carey’s legendary moment, the night had something for everyone.
What You Will Learn in This Article
- The complete breakdown of VMAs 2025 Winners and performances from iconic awards to surprise appearances.
- How the VMAs are shaping global music trends, categories, and new industry benchmarks.
- Takeaways on the cultural impact of this year’s show and why the 2025 edition will be remembered for decades.
The Buzz Around MTV VMAs 2025 Full Winners List
Every year, millions tune in to catch the MTV VMAs 2025 full winners list, but this year was different. Hosted at the UBS Arena, the show was marked by glamour, historic wins, and performances that captured the cultural pulse of our times.
Lady Gaga set the tone for the night, winning Artist of the Year before dashing off to Madison Square Garden for her Mayhem Ball tour stop.
With 12 nominations, Gaga proved yet again why she dominates the industry. The VMAs 2025 Winners also featured a fresh mix of rising stars and legendary icons, showing the balance between innovation and tradition in today’s music world.
Lady Gaga Artist of the Year
When it comes to headline making wins, nothing beats Lady Gaga Artist of the Year VMAs 2025. Gaga’s speech was powerful, reflecting on her journey, the importance of staying authentic, and the unbreakable bond with her fans.
Her acceptance was not only a victory for her artistry but also a reminder of her ability to reinvent herself across decades. Music is not just sound it’s the story we all live in together, Gaga told the crowd, her words echoing through the UBS Arena.
Rosé & Bruno Mars Win Song of the Year
One of the most viral categories of the night was Song of the Year, claimed by Rosé & Bruno Mars APT Song of the Year. Their track APT fused pop, soul, and K-pop elements into a global anthem.
For Rosé, this marked another milestone as she continued breaking barriers as the First K-Pop solo artist win VMAs, cementing her place in history.
This win also signaled a larger trend, K-pop isn’t just a niche it’s a global cultural movement blending seamlessly with Western pop.
Tate McRae and the Song of the Summer
In one of the night’s most exciting moments, Tate McRae Song of the Summer VMAs win for Just Keep Watching from F1 The Movie electrified fans.
The track’s success proves that crossover between film soundtracks and mainstream music continues to thrive. McRae’s acceptance speech emphasized the power of storytelling in music and film together.
The Sombre Best Alternative VMAs 2025 win for Back to Friends was another highlight. Known for their deeply emotional and raw sound.
Sombre’s music captured the restless energy of a generation caught between nostalgia and uncertainty.
This win highlighted how alternative music is no longer sidelined it’s carving a strong identity in mainstream pop culture.
Special Awards Ricky Martin and Busta Rhymes
The Special awards at VMAs 2025 brought unforgettable moments, Ricky Martin Latin Icon Award celebrated his decades long contribution to music and his role in globalizing Latin pop.
His medley, filled with classics like Livin’ la Vida Loca had fans dancing in the aisles. Busta Rhymes Rock the Bells Visionary Award honored his influence on hip hop.
His electrifying medley proved why his artistry continues to inspire generations. These awards demonstrate how the VMAs aren’t just about current hits they honor legacy and innovation side by side.
Sabrina Carpenter Steals the Stage
While winners are essential, performances make the VMAs truly legendary. Sabrina Carpenter VMAs 2025 performance was one of the night’s most talked about acts.
With her powerful vocals, choreography, and storytelling stage design, she proved she’s one of the brightest stars shaping pop music today.
Carpenter’s performance tied in with the VMAs 2025 performances recap, showing how rising stars are now commanding the same level of hype as industry veterans.
The most emotional moment of the evening was when Ariana Grande presents Mariah Carey VMAs with the Mariah Carey Video Vanguard Award 2025. Mariah also won her first ever VMA earlier in the pre show for Best R&B.
Fans described the moment as magical, with Grande calling Carey the blueprint for countless artists who followed. For Mariah, it was a recognition long overdue.
Her acceptance speech reminded the industry of her lasting legacy and timeless voice. The UBS Arena VMAs 2025 served as more than a venue it became a cultural landmark.
Its world class stage, immersive visuals, and advanced sound systems elevated every performance. This underlines why location matters for global award shows it’s not just about the artists but also about creating an unforgettable experience.
Hosting duties were handled by LL Cool J hosts VMAs 2025, and he didn’t disappoint. His charisma, humor, and ability to connect with both younger and older audiences showed why he remains a timeless entertainer. His nods to hip hop’s history also resonated with fans worldwide.
Why the VMAs 2025 Winners Matter Beyond Music
The VMAs 2025 Winners aren’t just a list of trophies they’re indicators of where global culture is heading.
From Rosé breaking barriers for K-pop to Mariah Carey’s legendary recognition, the awards reflect diversity, inclusivity, and the blending of genres.
Rosé’s solo achievement shows how K-pop idols can successfully transition into global solo artists, influencing music training academies worldwide.
Tate McRae’s film soundtrack win highlights the merging of film and music industries, offering brands and creators opportunities to collaborate across media.
Ricky Martin’s honor proves Latin music’s global staying power, inspiring a new wave of artists from Latin America entering mainstream platforms.
Actionable Insights for Music Fans and Industry Watchers
Watch trends early. Pay attention to rising stars like Sombre and Tate McRae they’re shaping new genres and fan expectations.
Look at cultural crossovers. K-pop, Latin music, and alternative are no longer niche. They’re influencing global playlists.
Think evergreen. Awards like the Video Vanguard remind us that legacies matter as much as viral hits both fans and marketers can leverage this in long term engagement.
The VMAs 2025 Winners proved once again that the MTV Video Music Awards are more than trophies they are a reflection of culture, creativity, and community.
From Lady Gaga’s commanding presence to Mariah Carey’s long awaited recognition, the show gave fans moments they’ll talk about for years.
As music continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the VMAs will always be the stage where legends rise, new stars shine, and history is written.
👉 What did you think of this year’s show? Share your thoughts in the comments, tag a friend, and don’t forget to subscribe for more music insights and global entertainment updates.