MTV VMAs 2025 : The Ultimate Guide to Music’s Most Electrifying Night

From the star-studded performer lineup to the artists who might make a surprise appearance (or a noticeable absence), we’re breaking down the complete guide to the MTV VMAs 2025.

The Stage is Set MTV VMAs 2025 : Who’s Performing ?

The performer list is always the heart of the MTV VMAs 2025, and this year, MTV has curated a genre-bending lineup that represents the very pinnacle of today’s music scene. These are the artists set to light the stage on fire:

• Sabrina Carpenter: Fresh off the massive success of her latest album and hit single, Carpenter is poised to deliver a show-stopping, choreography-heavy performance that will solidify her status as a pop powerhouse.

• Billi Eilish: The enigmatic superstar returns to the VMA stage, likely to debut a stunning live rendition of a track from her highly anticipated new album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT. Expect a cinematic and emotionally charged moment.

• Tyler, the Creator: A master of creative chaos, Tyler’s performance is guaranteed to be one of the most talked-about events of the night. With his unpredictable energy and incredible stagecraft, anything can happen.

• Karol G: The Latin music global phenomenon will bring a burst of fiery, infectious energy to the proceedings. Get ready for a vibrant, dance-heavy spectacle that celebrates her record-breaking year.

• The Rolling Stones: In a move that bridges generations, the legendary rock icons are set to perform, proving that true rock ‘n’ roll never dies. This is a historic moment for the VMAs and music fans everywhere.

• Ice Spice: The rap sensation known for her viral hits and undeniable charisma is sure to deliver a high-energy set that will get the entire arena moving.

This incredible mix of legacy acts and defining voices of the new generation ensures that the MTV VMAs 2025 will have something for every music fan. For the most current updates on the running order, you can always check the official MTV VMA website.

The Nominees Of MTV VMAs 2025 : Who’s Up for a Moonperson ?

This year’s nominations reflect a year of incredible music video production, with several artists dominating the categories.

Artist of the Year is a tight race between Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G, and Beyoncé. Each has had a monumental year, making this one of the most unpredictable categories.

Video of the Year showcases directorial brilliance, with nominees including the cinematic masterpiece for Billie Eilish’s “LUNCH,” the empowering visuals of Beyoncé’s “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM,” the raw emotion of Taylor Swift’s “Fortnight,” the infectious energy of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso,” and the gritty storytelling of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us.”

Other key categories to watch include Best New Artist, which features breakout stars like Chappell Roan, Tyla, and Benson Boone, and Song of the Summer, which always sparks fierce debate.

How to Watch the MTV VMAs 2025

You won’t want to miss a single second of the action. The MTV Video Music Awards 2025 will broadcast live from the iconic UBS Arena in New York.

• Date: Sunday, September 07, 2025

• Start Time: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT

• Channel: The main show will air live on MTV.

• Streaming: For cord-cutters, the ceremony can be streamed live on MTV.com and through the MTV app with a valid cable provider login. Additionally, many live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and FuboTV carry MTV in their packages.

The red carpet pre-show, where the fashion narratives begin, will start at 6:30 PM ET on MTV and various online platforms.

The Big Question : Will Taylor Swift Show Up in MTV VMAs 2025?

One of the biggest stories leading up to the event has been the confirmed absence of pop titan Taylor Swift. Despite leading the nominations with a staggering 8 nods, including Video of the Year for “Fortnight,” sources confirm she will not be in attendance.

This decision is not due to any controversy but is purely logistical. Swift is currently on her record-shattering The Eras Tour in Europe, with a scheduled concert in Warsaw, Poland, on the same night as the VMAs. While her fans (Swifties) are undoubtedly disappointed, her dedication to her live show attendees is a testament to her artist-first philosophy. Her absence certainly opens the field for other winners in the categories where she is nominated, making the races even more exciting. For more on major music industry scheduling conflicts, outlets like Billboard often provide in-depth reporting.

MTV VMAs 2025 More Than Awards : What to Expect

The MTV VMAs 2025 are never just about the awards. The night is famous for its unexpected and viral moments.

• Fashion Statements: The red carpet is a runway for audacious style. Look for artists to make bold choices, from high-fashion couture to outrageous, thematic outfits that tie into their performances.

• Unforgettable Collaborations: The VMAs often host surprise duets and special guest appearances. Could one of the performers bring out a legendary icon or a red-hot newcomer?

• Social Moments: In today’s digital age, the conversation happens online. The best performances, acceptance speeches, and even awkward moments will be clipped and shared across TikTok, X (Twitter), and Instagram within seconds, creating the watercooler moments of tomorrow.

Why the MTV VMAs 2025 Still Matter

In a fragmented media landscape, the VMAs remain a unique tentpole event. They celebrate the art form of the music video, a medium that has seen a massive resurgence thanks to streaming. It’s a night that brings together music fans of all ages to witness live performances that can define an artist’s career, generate headlines, and create memories that last a lifetime. It’s chaotic, unpredictable, and utterly mesmerizing.

The 2025 VMAs are shaping up to be a perfect storm of talent, spectacle, and raw musical power. Whether you’re tuning in for the rock legends, the pop queens, or the promise of a genuine surprise, this is one night you can’t afford to miss. For the latest news and behind-the-scenes content as it happens, keep an eye on entertainment hubs like Yahoo Entertainment.