2025 VMAs Lineup Announced: Sabrina Carpenter, J Balvin Lead Performances; Busta Rhymes and Ricky Martin to Be Honored

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) are gearing up for a star-studded celebration, with the first wave of performers officially revealed on Monday, August 18, 2025. Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter, global reggaeton star J Balvin, and several other artists will take the stage, delivering performances fans have been eagerly anticipating.

Additionally, iconic hip-hop and Latin music legends Busta Rhymes and Ricky Martin are set to receive honorary awards, recognizing their longstanding contributions to music and pop culture.

Performance Lineup Highlights

Sabrina Carpenter is scheduled to perform her latest hits, combining high-energy pop choreography with live vocal performances, while J Balvin will showcase his signature reggaeton flair. According to Billboard, these initial performer announcements mark the start of what promises to be one of the most diverse and globally minded VMA lineups in recent years.

Other performers, yet to be announced, are expected to include a mix of emerging artists and established superstars, reflecting MTV’s continued commitment to spotlighting both new talent and chart-topping acts.

Honoring Music Legends

Busta Rhymes and Ricky Martin will receive special honorary awards during the ceremony. Busta Rhymes’ award celebrates over three decades of groundbreaking hip-hop contributions, including his influence on both mainstream and underground rap. Ricky Martin’s recognition underscores his pivotal role in bringing Latin pop into global prominence and inspiring a new generation of Latin artists.

Industry insiders suggest that these honors highlight MTV’s ongoing effort to balance contemporary pop culture with acknowledgment of music icons who have shaped the industry. Rolling Stone notes that past honorary awards have often become memorable moments of the ceremony, with artists reflecting on their careers and influence.

The VMAs Experience in 2025

The 2025 VMAs, set to air live from New York City on Sunday, September 7, 2025, will feature a mix of live stage performances, digital streaming integrations, and interactive fan experiences. Fans will have opportunities to vote for select categories through MTV’s official website and social media channels, ensuring engagement beyond the broadcast itself.

Sabrina Carpenter, who recently headlined her sold-out tour in early 2025, is expected to deliver a visually stunning performance, complete with immersive stage design. J Balvin, known for his electrifying shows at Coachella and global music festivals, will bring vibrant production and dynamic choreography, promising to captivate both live and virtual audiences.

Cultural Significance

The VMAs continue to serve as a platform that celebrates music innovation and performance artistry. By including both contemporary stars and legendary figures like Busta Rhymes and Ricky Martin, the 2025 ceremony underscores a commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future of the music industry.

According to Variety, this year’s lineup is expected to draw millions of viewers globally, further cementing the VMAs as a major cultural event in the entertainment calendar.

Looking Ahead

With the first performers announced, anticipation for the 2025 VMAs is already building. Fans are marking Sunday, September 7, 2025, on their calendars to watch the live show, eager to witness electrifying performances, memorable award moments, and surprise appearances.

As the countdown continues, MTV is expected to release additional performers and presenters in the coming weeks, ensuring that the 2025 VMAs remain one of the most talked-about award shows of the year.