2025 IHeartRadio Music Awards Celebrate Top Artists And Songs

The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards kicked off on March 17 at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, showcasing some of the biggest names and chart-toppers across various music genres. Hosted by the iconic LL Cool J, the ceremony celebrated remarkable achievements from the past year, bridging the gap between music fans and their favorite artists.

This year, Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, and Morgan Wallen emerged as the biggest artists to watch, each receiving 10 nominations. Their nominations placed them alongside prominent figures like Sabrina Carpenter and Post Malone, both of whom also demonstrated significant earning power with their music.

One of the night’s highlights was Taylor Swift's receipt of the coveted Tour of the Century prize, honoring her record-breaking Eras Tour, which grossed over $2 billion. "Watching artists get celebrated brings me immense joy," commented LL Cool J. This sentiment echoed throughout the evening, illustrating the camaraderie and admiration shared within the entertainment community.

Performances were another significant draw of the night. With live acts from superstars like Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, Nelly, and GloRilla, viewers were treated to electrifying performances spanning pop, hip-hop, country, and Latin music. Despite the star-studded lineup, it was JoJo Siwa who turned heads with her eccentric red carpet look. Sporting a headpiece adorned with dangling jewels, Siwa not only showcased her creativity but also epitomized the celebratory spirit of the night.

Alongside these performances, the ceremony honored several prominent artists with special awards. Lady Gaga was awarded the Innovator Award, celebrating her trailblazing impact on music, fashion, and culture. Mariah Carey received the Icon Award, joining the ranks of legendary honorees like Jennifer Lopez and Elton John. The Landmark Award went to Nelly, acknowledging his contributions to music over the years.

The event also included tributes to the pressing social issues of our times. A segment dedicated to raising funds for wildfire relief efforts showcased the power of music as not just entertainment, but also as charitable giving. Funds raised from this initiative would assist both short-term recovery and long-term prevention strategies through FireAidLA.org.

This year’s presenters added another layer of allure to the ceremony. Celebrity appearances included Becky G, Billy Idol, Joel McHale, Kelsea Ballerini, and Victoria Monét, amplifying the dazzling atmosphere of the evening.

Among the winners, Shaboozey took home the award for Song of the Year for his hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” and Muni Long won R&B Song of the Year for “Made For Me.” Taylor Swift, who starred as the night’s big draw, also secured the award for Favorite Tour Style, which celebrated the innovative presentations seen during her Eras Tour.

Overall, the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards proved to be more than just another awards show. It was an event merging the talents of established singers with up-and-coming stars, addressing real-world issues, and emphasizing the significant impact music has on community engagement. The high-energy performances, surprise guest appearances, and the passionate atmosphere created by fans and attendees alike cemented this evening as one for the history books.

For viewers who missed the live event, highlights will be available on iHeartRadio stations and streaming platforms such as Hulu + Live TV and Fubo. The celebration of music, talent, and resilience showcased tonight sets the stage for the upcoming year, inviting fans to reflect on the songs and artists who shaped their playlists.