The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards delivered glitz, big wins, and superstar performances . But the true heart of the night was legacy. For once, the Moon Person spotlight didn’t just shine on chart-toppers of today. Instead, it crowned three icons who have shaped music video culture for decades: Mariah Carey, Ricky Martin, and Busta Rhymes.
With long-overdue recognition, the VMAs finally gave these legends their flowers and in doing so, reminded the world why music videos matter.
Mariah Carey Reigns With the Video Vanguard Award
When Mariah Carey stepped onto the VMAs stage to accept the Video Vanguard Award, it felt like history correcting itself. For more than three decades, Carey has given fans unforgettable visuals , from the glamorous yacht in Honey to the playful star power of Heartbreaker and the heartfelt intimacy of We Belong Together.
Introduced by Ariana Grande, Carey performed a dazzling medley that had the crowd singing along word for word. The performance was more than nostalgia — it was a reminder that Mariah doesn’t just sing songs, she creates cultural moments.
Fans have long wondered why MTV had overlooked her. This year, the wait ended. The Queen of Pop-R&B finally claimed her rightful crown.
Ricky Martin Makes History as Latin Icon
The roar that greeted Ricky Martin said it all: Latin music is no longer a sidebar; it’s global, and it’s here to stay. Martin became the first-ever recipient of the Latin Icon Award, a new honor introduced in 2025.
From Livin’ la Vida Loca to his tireless advocacy for Latin visibility, Martin has paved the way for the genre’s worldwide takeover. His VMAs performance electrified the arena, blending his greatest hits with a fiery tribute to Latin culture.
In his acceptance speech, Martin reflected on the journey:
“This award is for every artist who dared to sing in Spanish when the world told us English was the only way. Latin music is not a trend. It’s a heartbeat.”
Busta Rhymes: Hip-Hop’s Visionary Gets His Flowers
Few artists embody the VMAs spirit of innovation like Busta Rhymes. Known for his mind-bending videos and unmatched energy, he was honored with the Rock the Bells Visionary Award.
Clips of his groundbreaking work — Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See, Gimme Some More — lit up the screens before Busta stormed the stage with his signature charisma. His acceptance speech paid tribute to hip-hop’s enduring power and MTV’s role in showcasing it.
It was raw, real, and long overdue. Busta reminded the audience that hip-hop isn’t just music but it’s a culture that reinvented visuals forever.
Why This VMAs Felt Different
For years, critics have said the VMAs chased shock value instead of artistry. This year, the tide turned. By spotlighting Carey, Martin, and Busta, MTV acknowledged the pioneers who turned music videos into global storytelling tools.
Indeed, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, and BLACKPINK’s Rosé took home big wins. Yes, there were viral performances and plenty of pop spectacle. But the 2025 VMAs will be remembered for something bigger: the moment legends were finally honored as the foundation of the industry.