The MTV Video Music Awards are almost here, and the first slate of performers for the 2025 ceremony has officially been revealed.
This year’s lineup includes Sabrina Carpenter, J Balvin with DJ Snake, Ricky Martin, Alex Warren, Busta Rhymes, and breakout artist sombr. The show, hosted by LL Cool J, will air live on Sunday, September 7, from UBS Arena in New York.
The 2025 VMAs promise to be one of the most diverse shows yet. Hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes will be honored with the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award, celebrating his decades-spanning career and more than 60 million certified records sold. Ricky Martin will also receive the first-ever Latin Icon Award, marking 26 years since his career-defining 1999 VMAs performance.
Pop powerhouse Sabrina Carpenter is making her second consecutive appearance on the main stage after a breakout performance in 2024. This year, she’s also up for eight nominations, including Video of the Year for her viral hit “Manchild.”
Social media star turned musician Alex Warren will be making his VMA debut, bringing his nominated track “Ordinary” to the stage. He’s also in the running for Best New Artist, Best Pop, and Song of the Year.
Meanwhile, J Balvin is returning with his infectious single “Zun Zun,” and will team up with DJ Snake for the live premiere of their new collaboration “Noventa.” Rising artist sombr will make their first VMA appearance as well, with nominations in both Best New Artist and Best Alternative categories.
As always, the VMAs are expected to deliver headline-making performances and surprise moments, with additional performers and presenters to be announced in the coming weeks.
With Carpenter, Balvin, Martin, Rhymes, Warren, and sombr already confirmed, this year’s show is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about music events of 2025.
