The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, hosted by LL Cool J at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, honors the most-played artists and songs from the previous year. This prestigious event celebrates not only the achievements of 2024 but also previews upcoming hits for 2025. Leading nominees include Kendrick Lamar, Morgan Wallen, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, and Taylor Swift. Special awards are presented to Lady Gaga as Innovator, Mariah Carey as Icon, Gracie Abrams as Breakthrough Artist, and Nelly as Landmark Award recipient.
A Night of Stars and Sounds
In the heart of Los Angeles during a vibrant spring evening, the Dolby Theater became the epicenter of music's brightest stars. Hosted by the legendary LL Cool J, the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards unfolded with performances from Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, Kenny Chesney, among others. The ceremony aired live on FOX and featured appearances by Becky G, Billy Idol, and more. Key moments included Lady Gaga receiving the Innovator Award for her groundbreaking contributions to music and film, Mariah Carey being honored with the Icon Award marking two decades since her iconic album "The Emancipation of Mimi," and Gracie Abrams earning recognition as Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Nominations spanned multiple genres including pop, country, hip-hop, R&B, alternative, rock, dance, Latin, K-pop, and more, showcasing global talent.
Notable categories such as Song of the Year saw fierce competition between tracks like "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" by Shaboozey, "Espresso" by Sabrina Carpenter, and "Not Like Us" by Kendrick Lamar. Meanwhile, collaborations such as "Die With A Smile" by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars highlighted cross-genre partnerships that captivated audiences worldwide.
Beyond the awards themselves, this event paid tribute to Los Angeles' resilience following recent wildfires, encouraging donations through FireAidLA.org.
An Inspiring Evening for Fans and Artists Alike
As a journalist covering the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, I am struck by how this event encapsulates both nostalgia and innovation within the music industry. It serves as a reminder of the power of artistry across diverse genres and cultures, bridging gaps between generations while celebrating individuality. Recognizing trailblazers like Lady Gaga and Mariah Carey alongside emerging talents such as Gracie Abrams underscores the cyclical nature of influence in music creation. For fans tuning in or attending virtually via iHeartRadio platforms, it offers an opportunity to engage deeply with their favorite artists' journeys and anticipate what lies ahead in 2025.