First MTV VMA Performers Announced: Sabrina Carpenter, Busta Rhymes & More

Get ready for a star-studded night as the first MTV VMA performers are revealed for 2025, including Sabrina Carpenter and hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes.

The VMA Stage Comes Alive with an Electric Lineup

The excitement is building for the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, set to light up the USB Arena on Long Island, New York, this September 7th. Among the first performers announced are a dynamic mix of artists who bring diverse sounds and energies to the stage: Alex Warren, Busta Rhymes, J Balvin featuring DJ Snake, Ricky Martin, Sabrina Carpenter, and sombr.

Busta Rhymes is not just performing; he’s also being honored with the MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award, a nod to his incredible, decades-long influence in hip-hop culture and music. Meanwhile, Ricky Martin is set to receive the inaugural Latin Icon Award, a well-deserved recognition coming 26 years after his unforgettable VMA domination back in 1999.

Latin Music Takes Center Stage

J Balvin is gearing up for a double performance at the VMAs, first joining forces with Latin stars Justin Quiles and Lenny Tavárez to celebrate the vibrant Latin music scene. Then, he’ll team up with DJ Snake for the live debut of their fresh new track, “Noventa.” It’s a perfect blend of reggaeton and electronic vibes, and judging by past VMA mania, it’s bound to set the crowd on fire.

Adding another layer of excitement, the legendary LL Cool J will take the helm as host, guiding viewers through the night’s performances and honors with his signature cool.

The Nominee Race: Lady Gaga Leads the Pack

When it comes to nominations, the fierce competition is on! Lady Gaga leads with a whopping 12 nods, closely followed by Bruno Mars with 11 and Kendrick Lamar with 10. This year’s nominees highlight a vivid spectrum of talent:

• Sabrina Carpenter with 8 nominations
• Ariana Grande and The Weeknd with 7 each
• Billie Eilish with 6
• Charli XCX with 5
• Bad Bunny, Doechii, Ed Sheeran, Jelly Roll, Miley Cyrus, and Tate McRae all snagging 4 nods apiece.

It’s a thrilling lineup that promises both powerhouse performances and intense award show drama.

Fans Have Their Say: Voting Is Open!

Want to shape the outcome? Fan voting is currently underway in 19 categories and will continue until September 5. The Best New Artist category holds a special place, as it remains open for submissions even after the live broadcast begins — giving fresh talent a chance to rise under the VMA spotlight.

Rock Royalty and More

For those who love a good rock anthem, the VMAs also offer a moment to celebrate the genre’s legends. If you’re curious about the biggest rock stars of all time, there’s a running list of the Top 100 greatest rock stars that you can check out for some serious throwback vibes.

“Rhymes will receive the MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award for his decades-long career in hip-hop, while Martin will be honored with the first Latin Icon award 26 years after dominating the VMAs in 1999.”

As the countdown to September 7th continues, anticipation builds for what promises to be a night packed with unforgettable performances, heartfelt tributes, and fan-fueled excitement. Whether you’re team pop, hip-hop, or Latin beats, the 2025 MTV VMAs have a little something for everyone.

FAQs

• What special awards are being given at the 2025 MTV VMAs?
  Busta Rhymes will receive the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, and Ricky Martin will be honored with the first-ever Latin Icon Award.
• Who is hosting the 2025 VMAs?
  The event will be hosted by hip-hop legend LL Cool J.
• When and where will the VMAs take place?
  September 7th at the USB Arena in Long Island, New York.
• Can fans vote for the awards?
  Yes, fan voting is open in 19 categories until September 5, with Best New Artist voting staying open during the show.
• Which artist has the most nominations this year?
  Lady Gaga leads with 12 nominations.

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