Summer is winding down, and the MTV Video Music Awards are just around the corner.

The network has unveiled the first set of performers for the 2025 VMAs, airing Sunday, Sept. 7, at 7 p.m. CT.

For the first time, the show will broadcast live on CBS, while also streaming on MTV and Paramount+. Rapper and actor LL Cool J will host the night from New York’s UBS Arena.

Star-Studded Performances

MTV confirmed performances by Sabrina Carpenter, Ricky Martin, Busta Rhymes, Alex Warren, J Balvin with DJ Snake, and rising artist sombr. Several of these artists will also be honored with prestigious awards.

Honorees

Busta Rhymes will receive the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award, recognizing his decades of cultural influence and global success.

Ricky Martin will make history as the first recipient of the Latin Icon Award, marking 26 years since he won Best Pop Video for “Livin’ la Vida Loca.”

Artists to Watch

• Sabrina Carpenter returns with eight nominations, including Video of the Year for “Manchild,” just days after releasing her new album Man’s Best Friend.
• Alex Warren, this year’s MTV PUSH artist, will debut on the VMAs stage. He’s up for Best New Artist, Best Pop, and Song of the Year for “Ordinary.”
• J Balvin, the most-awarded Latin artist in VMA history, will perform “Zun Zun” with Justin Quiles and Lenny Tavárez before premiering a new track, “Noventa,” alongside DJ Snake.
• sombr, nominated for the first time, will perform his breakout hit “back to friends” and compete in Best New Artist and Best Alternative.

A Night to Remember

With iconic tributes, career-defining honors, and live debuts, the 2025 VMAs promise a dynamic mix of nostalgia and new talent—cementing the awards show’s role as a cultural milestone in music.

For more on the MTV Video Music Awards, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.