Superstar Mariah Carey is set to be the recipient of the prestigious 2025 MTV VMAs Video Vanguard Award. This coveted award recognizes Carey’s outstanding contributions to the music industry, cementing her status as the best-selling female artist of all time. The announcement was made by MTV on August 21, with Carey slated to perform a special medley of her greatest hits during the awards show on September 7.
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Carey’s connection to the Video Vanguard Award comes full circle, as she presented the same award to this year’s host, LL Cool J, back in 1997. This year’s VMAs will mark Carey’s return after two decades, showcasing her iconic talent and legacy in the music world. The event is scheduled to take place at New York’s UBS Arena and will be broadcast live on CBS and MTV, offering fans a night to remember.
The multi-talented singer first graced the MTV VMAs stage in 1991 with a performance of her hit song “Emotions.” Over the years, Carey has captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and memorable performances, including a notable duet with Whitney Houston in 1998. Additionally, Carey is nominated for Best R&B for her upcoming track “Type Dangerous” from the album “Here For It All,” set for release on September 26.
The Video Vanguard Award has been previously bestowed upon music icons such as Katy Perry, Shakira, Beyoncé, and Madonna, among others. This prestigious accolade celebrates artists who have made a significant impact on the music industry and pushed boundaries with their creativity and talent. For Carey, this honour is a testament to her enduring influence and remarkable career.
In addition to Carey’s recognition, MTV has announced LL Cool J as the host for this year’s VMAs. The star-studded event will also feature performances by Sabrina Carpenter, Ricky Martin, J Balvin, and others, promising an unforgettable night of music and celebration. With Lady Gaga leading the nominations with 12 nods, including Artist of the Year and Song of the Year, the 2025 MTV VMAs are shaping up to be a star-studded affair.
As fans eagerly anticipate Carey’s performance and the lineup of talented artists set to grace the stage, the VMAs promise to be a must-watch event for music enthusiasts around the world. Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes highlights leading up to the highly anticipated 2025 MTV VMAs, where Mariah Carey will take centre stage to receive the well-deserved Video Vanguard Award.