The 2025 VMAs: A Night Where Pop History Met the Future on CBS

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards broke new ground in more ways than one. For the first time in its 41-year history, the VMAs aired on CBS, a network better known for its older primetime audience than for the youth-driven energy that has defined MTV’s flagship event for decades. Yet, despite this surprising move, the show retained its signature electric vibe, proving that even on a new stage, the VMAs could still feel like a cultural collision of music’s biggest legends and brightest stars.

Hosted by the effortlessly cool LL Cool J, the night opened with a performance that set the tone for what was to come. Doja Cat, channeling the neon-lit 1980s with a teased bouffant and a nod to Max Headroom, kicked things off with a burst of energy that felt like a high-voltage jolt of nostalgia. Her performance of “Jealous Type,” with saxophonist Kenny G’s smooth intro, was a dazzling reminder that the VMAs can honor the past while pushing forward with fresh sound and style.

The energy only built from there. On a stage at the UBS Arena on Long Island, long overdue tributes and iconic moments unfolded one after another. Mariah Carey, long considered one of music’s greatest voices, finally received her first-ever VMA as the recipient of the Video Vanguard Award. Draped in champagne gold, she delivered a medley that reminded everyone why she’s a diva for the ages, weaving together her new music with classic hits. Her acceptance, filled with humor and gratitude, was a highlight of the night, a recognition of her decades-long impact that felt both overdue and deeply deserved.

Similarly, hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes was honored with the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award, celebrating his boundary-pushing music videos and influence. His acknowledgment of the long wait for this recognition was met with cheers, and his performance was as electrifying as ever, showing that his fire hasn’t dimmed.

The night wasn’t just about honoring the past, though. It was about the present and future of music. Lady Gaga entered the evening with the most nominations, facing the unique challenge of appearing at the VMAs and performing a Madison Square Garden tour stop across town on the same night. True to form, Gaga delivered a pre-recorded performance that was as theatrical and visually stunning as ever, blending hits like “Abracadabra” with eerie choreography from the Netflix series “Wednesday.” She also took home Artist of the Year and shared Best Collaboration with Bruno Mars for “Die With a Smile,” cementing her reign in pop’s upper echelon.

Ariana Grande was the night’s biggest winner, taking home Video of the Year for “Brighter Days Ahead” and Best Pop. Her wins crowned a year that’s been nothing short of spectacular, and her presence closed the show with a sense of triumph and celebration.

Rosé, joined by Bruno Mars, snagged Song of the Year for “APT.,” delivering a heartfelt acceptance that connected deeply with the audience. Her speech, an intimate nod to the younger version of herself who first dared to dream, resonated in the packed arena, proving that personal growth and artistic success go hand in hand.

Among the new generation of stars, Alex Warren’s win for Best New Artist highlighted how viral success can translate into industry acclaim. Meanwhile, Tate McRae’s debut on the VMAs main stage showcased her serious dance chops and star power, performing a medley that was as visually arresting as it was emotional.

The night also saw a major expansion of categories to better reflect today’s musical landscape. Country music gained a visible spotlight with the introduction of Best Country, awarded to Megan Moroney for “Am I Okay.” Sabrina Carpenter earned Best Pop Artist and used her performance of “Tears” as a platform to bring visibility to drag culture and trans rights, enlisting stars from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” to join her onstage. Her win for Best Album later that evening underscored her rising star power.

The ceremony’s tribute segment added some much-needed grit and heart. The late Ozzy Osbourne, a towering figure in heavy metal and a pop culture staple thanks to MTV’s reality series “The Osbournes,” was honored by a powerful performance featuring Yungblud, Steven Tyler, and Joe Perry. The moment was a poignant reminder of MTV’s legacy in both music and culture.

All this unfolded against the backdrop of a red carpet filled with show-stopping looks, from Ariana Grande’s blend of vintage and futuristic glam to Tate McRae’s sheer white gown that captivated photographers and fans alike.

What made this VMAs special wasn’t just the star power or the awards, it was the way the night balanced reverence for music history with the excitement of the next big thing. Even on a network like CBS, known for its steady, older audience, the VMAs managed to be a raucous celebration of now, a noisy, colorful festival of sound and vision that reminded viewers why this show still matters.

If there was any doubt, the 2025 VMAs proved it: this isn’t just a music awards show. It’s a cultural moment, a snapshot of where music has been and where it’s going and it’s impossible to look away. So, whether you were tuning in for the legends, the rising stars, or just the sheer unpredictability, one thing’s clear: the VMAs are here to stay, loud, proud, and ready to surprise us all over again.