Mariah Carey will be honored with the prestigious MTV Video Vanguard Award at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). The ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, and will be broadcast live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+.
This significant award celebrates artists who have made a profound impact on music videos and popular culture. Carey's selection highlights her immense influence and groundbreaking contributions to the visual storytelling of music. She is also scheduled to perform a medley of her greatest hits at the event.
The VMAs will be hosted by LL Cool J, who previously received the Vanguard Award from Carey in 1997, marking a full-circle moment. Carey's VMA journey began in 1991 with a performance of "Emotions."
The lineup of performers includes J Balvin, Sabrina Carpenter, and Alex Warren. Busta Rhymes will receive the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, and Ricky Martin will be honored with the inaugural Latin Icon Award. Lady Gaga leads the nominations with 12 nods, followed by Bruno Mars with 11, and Kendrick Lamar with 10.
Carey's career is marked by numerous achievements, including 19 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles, more than any other solo artist. She has sold over 220 million albums worldwide and earned five Grammy Awards. Her impact extends beyond music to acting and writing, with a New York Times bestselling memoir.
The announcement coincides with the upcoming release of Carey's 16th studio album, "Here For It All," scheduled for September 26, 2025. The album features the single "Type Dangerous," which was released on June 6, 2025.