Sabrina Carpenter, sombr, Alex Warren & More to Perform on 2025 MTV VMAs

August 18, 2025 – Radio 854 Music News

The countdown is on: MTV has unveiled its first wave of performers for the 2025 Video Music Awards, airing Sunday, September 7, live from UBS Arena in New York—this year simulcast on MTV, CBS, and streaming on Paramount+.

Confirmed Performers Taking the Spotlight:

• Sabrina Carpenter — bringing star power and performing in support of her upcoming album Man’s Best Friend. She’s already garnered eight VMA nominations, including Video of the Year (“Manchild”) and Best Pop Artist.

• Alex Warren — a breakout star, both nominated for Song of the Year (“Ordinary”) and Best New Artist.

• Sombr — also in the spotlight as a Best New Artist nominee, performing at the show.

• J Balvin (joined by DJ Snake) — bringing their dynamic Latin beats to the VMAs stage.

• Busta Rhymes — not only performing but also receiving the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award, honoring his lasting cultural impact.

• Ricky Martin — set to receive the Latin Icon Award, highlighting his influence on Latin pop and broader culture.

Additional performers include DJ Snake and Justin Quiles, as confirmed alongside the main cast.

Beyond the Performances

The VMAs this year promise a star-studded lineup:

• LL Cool J returns as solo host for the first time, reminding fans of his deep roots in the show and his first Video Vanguard Award back in 1997.

• Lady Gaga leads this year’s nominations with a staggering 12 nods, closely followed by Bruno Mars (11) and Kendrick Lamar (10).

• The VMAs debut two new categories: Best Pop Artist and Best Country, expanding recognition for diverse talent.

What This Means for Radio 854 Listeners

Expect an electrifying evening—a blend of emerging voices like Alex Warren and Sombr, powerhouse performers like Sabrina Carpenter and J Balvin, and iconic honors for artists with legendary influence. It’s shaping up to be one of the most genre-spanning and culturally rich editions in recent memory.