The MTV Video Music Awards 2025 weren’t short on memorable moments, but Tate McRae’s performance was one that truly turned heads.
The 22-year-old singer brought a wave of energy and sensuality to the show, delivering a fiery mash-up of Revolving Door and Sports Car.
A Performance That Sizzled
Dressed in a white crop top and hot pants, Tate danced her way across a giant sandbox, surrounded by backup dancers styled like Greek gods in shimmery speedos.
The set only grew steamier as she rolled across the floor, her movements perfectly timed with bursts of fire erupting behind her.
Fans in the audience and at home responded with roaring applause, with many drawing comparisons to the early years of Britney Spears—a label Tate has heard before and continues to embrace.
Winning Big on Awards Night
It wasn’t just her performance that made noise—Tate also took home some hardware.
She earned Song of the Summer for Just Keep Watching and snagged Best Editing for the same track.
While she lost out on awards for Best Visual Effects, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Artist, her wins confirmed her place as one of the night’s standout names.
Other Highlights from the Night
The evening was packed with star-powered moments:
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Doja Cat opened the show with her single Jealous Type, blending 1980s vibes, bold visuals, and even a cameo from Kenny G.
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Rising star Lola Young delivered a soulful set reminiscent of Amy Winehouse, before Ricky Martin lit up the stage with a medley of his hits and accepted the Latin Icon Award.
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Rap legend Busta Rhymes brought the house down while receiving the first-ever Rock the Bells Visionary Award, with tracks like Gimme Some More and Scenario thrilling the crowd.
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Sabrina Carpenter staged a playful performance in a NYC-themed set and later celebrated wins for Best Album and Best Pop Artist.
Lady Gaga Steals Artist of the Year
Another huge moment came when Lady Gaga surprised many by beating Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Bad Bunny, and The Weeknd to claim Artist of the Year.
In her emotional speech, Gaga reflected on what it means to be an artist—calling it both a discipline and a responsibility to connect with people around the world.
She dedicated the award to her fans, the Little Monsters, and to her fiancé, Michael Polansky.
Celebrating Music’s Biggest Names
From Ariana Grande winning Video of the Year with Brighter Days Ahead, to Mariah Carey’s moment as the Video Vanguard Award honoree, the night was a blend of nostalgia, spectacle, and fresh talent.
Shakira, Lisa, and Tyla also scored big wins, showing just how global the VMAs stage has become.
What’s Next?
With Tate McRae stepping firmly into pop stardom, Doja Cat pushing creative boundaries, and legends like Gaga, Ricky Martin, and Mariah Carey reminding fans of their lasting impact, the 2025 MTV VMAs proved the show is still one of music’s biggest cultural stages.
The question now is—who will own the spotlight next year?