Get ready to relive the magic! The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards just wrapped up, and let me tell you, it was a night packed with incredible performances and well-deserved honors. Hosted by the legendary LL Cool J at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, the ceremony celebrated both the icons who paved the way and the rising stars shaping the future of music.
Doja Cat Kicks Off the Night with a Bang
The show wasted no time igniting the stage! Doja Cat opened the evening with a show-stopping performance of her hit track “Jealous Type.” What made it even more special? She was joined by the legendary saxophonist Kenny G, creating a unique fusion of her signature R&B sound with smooth jazz vibes. It was the perfect, bold kickoff to an evening full of surprises.
Tyla Continues Her Global Ascent
South Africa’s own Tyla proved she’s a force to be reckoned with, snagging her second consecutive Moon Person for Best Afrobeats with her infectious song “PUSH 2 START.” This win is another huge moment for Afrobeats on the global stage and solidifies Tyla’s status as a breakout star. She radiated gratitude, telling the crowd, “It’s just a blessing to be here and winning another award.”
Busta Rhymes Honored with the Rock the Bells Visionary Award
The night took an emotional and groundbreaking turn when hip-hop pioneer Busta Rhymes was presented with the first-ever MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award. LL Cool J introduced the icon, highlighting his immense influence. Busta then delivered a medley of his classic hits like “Gimme Some More,” “Touch It,” and “Pass the Courvoisier Part II,” with incredible support from artists like GloRilla, Joyner Lucas, and Papoose.
During his acceptance speech, Busta shared heartfelt thanks to those who shaped him, including LL Cool J, his family, and God. He also paid a touching tribute to the late MTV host Ananda Lewis, calling her “the incredible woman that loved me” and “loved the culture.” His powerful closing words, “The blessings don’t stop, so we don’t stop!” perfectly captured his enduring spirit.
Mariah Carey Receives the Video Vanguard Award
And then there was Mariah Carey. The legendary diva was honored with the prestigious Video Vanguard Award, presented by Ariana Grande, who beautifully described Carey as “the reason so many of us sing.” Carey graced the stage with a dazzling medley of her greatest hits, including “Fantasy,” “Heartbreaker,” “Obsessed,” “It’s Like That,” and the timeless “We Belong Together.” She truly turned the arena into her personal stage, reminding everyone why she’s the queen of vocal excellence.
Accepting her first-ever VMA, Carey charmed everyone with her signature wit, joking, “What in the Sam Hell were you waiting for?!” She then spoke passionately about how music videos are her “way of life,” visualizing the “sheer fantasy” of her music. Her enduring message? “Music evolves, videos evolve, but the fun? That is eternal.”
A Celebration of Black Culture in Music
From the global impact of Afrobeats to the visionary contributions of hip-hop and the enduring reign of R&B and pop, the 2025 VMAs were a powerful testament to the influence of Black culture in music. With Doja Cat, Busta Rhymes, and Mariah Carey all commanding the stage, this year’s ceremony was more than just an awards show – it was a vibrant celebration of legacies, a platform for vital voices, and a reminder that Black culture continues to drive the music industry forward.
What was your favorite moment from the 2025 MTV VMAs? Let us know in the comments below!
