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The MTV Video Music Awards are back with a star-studded lineup of nominees, and 2025 is shaping up to be a battle of icons. Leading the nominations are Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, and Kendrick Lamar, with each artist bringing bold visuals, compelling music, and undeniable star power to the table. Gaga tops the list with twelve nods, closely followed by Mars with eleven, and Lamar with ten.
Sabrina Carpenter and Ariana Grande are not far behind, adding fresh energy to a lineup that reflects the evolving pop landscape. While Beyoncé and Taylor Swift—two titans of the VMAs—have earned just one nomination each this year, both are still in the spotlight. Their nominations for Artist of the Year are a recognition of their groundbreaking tours rather than recent albums. The tie in VMA wins between Swift and Beyoncé, with thirty each, has now taken on new significance as they compete head-to-head once again.
Lady Gaga's nominations include recognition for her latest album Mayhem, which has already sparked excitement among critics and fans. Her duet with Bruno Mars, "Die With A Smile," is a frontrunner across several categories, including Song of the Year, Best Collaboration, and Video of the Year. With both artists currently on tour, their joint nomination feels like the anthem of the moment. Kendrick Lamar, known for his lyrical depth and genre-defying sound, continues to stand as a heavyweight presence at the VMAs, drawing attention to his ten nominations across hip-hop and video categories.
New categories introduced this year—Best Country and Best Pop Artist—reflect the industry's shift toward broader genre recognition, and give a nod to the increasing crossover of artists who refuse to be boxed in.
The ceremony is scheduled for 7 September at New York's UBS Arena, promising yet another unforgettable night of performances, surprise wins, and dramatic speeches. Meanwhile, the MTV Europe Music Awards remain on pause, heightening anticipation for the VMAs as the main event on the global pop calendar.
With legacy acts and rising stars competing for the same prizes, the 2025 VMAs are more than a popularity contest—they are a cultural checkpoint. The night could belong to Gaga, Mars, or even a surprise dark horse. One thing is clear: fans will be watching closely as new records are set, old rivalries reignite, and music continues to shape the moment.