The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards kicked off on March 17, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, celebrating the most-played artists of the year. With Taylor Swift leading the pack, the night promised to be one of excitement and high-caliber performances. This year’s award ceremony was hosted once again by LL Cool J, who shared his enthusiasm, stating, "It’s fun to do cool stuff and be close to music."
The awards were broadcast live on Fox at 8 p.m. ET/PT, giving fans worldwide the opportunity to tune in via various streaming platforms including DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, and Fubo. The excitement surrounding the event was palpable as viewers anticipated live performances from renowned artists such as Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, and Nelly, among others.
Swift was not just the audience's favorite; she dominated the nominations, boasting ten nods this year. Her accolades included categories like Artist of the Year, Pop Artist of the Year, Best Collaboration for her hit with Post Malone titled "Fortnight," and the coveted Favorite Tour Tradition. This award was particularly special since it celebrated her unique tradition of performing surprise songs throughout her tours, endearing her even more to audiences globally.
Adding to the thrill, Swift was set to receive the Tour of the Century award for her record-breaking Eras Tour, which launched on the same day two years prior, March 17, 2023. Fans not only celebrated her exceptional rise but also had the chance to relive her opening performance via exclusive footage during the ceremony. Swift reflected on this moment, writing, "I miss you like it was the very first night. Good thing we're about to go onstage and do the whole thing again tonight" following her memorable opening night.
The anticipation of Swift’s appearance only fueled speculation about her relationship with NFL star Travis Kelce, who was nominated for Favorite Surprise Guest for his viral London Eras Tour appearance. Their dynamic and potential attendance at the awards added another layer of intrigue, leaving fans wondering whether they would appear as a couple or choose to keep things under wraps.
While the evening focused predominantly on the music, it also honored icons such as Lady Gaga, who received the Innovator Award for her longstanding impact on the music industry, and Mariah Carey, who accepted the Icon Award, celebrating her contributions as one of music’s most influential figures. LL Cool J said it best: "I just like to see artists get celebrated... I love to feel the energy."
The highlight of the night, naturally, was expected to be the competition for Artist of the Year, featuring names like Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, and Morgan Wallen all vying for the top recognition alongside Swift. The sheer talent presented underscored the evening's prestige and excitement. Swift wasn’t just competing; her previous wins—25 across the iHeartRadio Music Awards history—placed her at the top of this prestigious event's most awarded artists.
This year’s nominations saw her contesting with fellow stars for numerous awards, including Best Music Video and Best Lyrics, both for “Fortnight,” which also received accolades for stirring song composition, reflecting her prowess as one of today’s leading music creators.
Swift's recognition wouldn't end there—her performances had set the musical standard for her peers. With her Eras Tour reportedly grossing over $2 billion, capturing audiences worldwide, the event was well aware of her significant influence and contribution to the contemporary music scene. Swift fans were equally thrilled at the prospect of witnessing snippets from the tour during the broadcast, hoping for some surprise appearances or unique performances.
2025 was not just about the awards for Swift; it was about the celebration of music, talent, and history. This year's iHeartRadio ceremony wasn't just another award show; it was anticipated to be a cross-generational gathering highlighting not only Swift’s achievements but also those of numerous talented artists who made significant impacts throughout the year.
The awards ceremony promised to ignite social media chatter, especially if Taylor and Travis stepped out together, making every moment—whether glamorous, surprise-filled, or emotional—worthy of the spotlight at the Dolby Theatre. Fans held their breaths as they awaited each reveal of nominee and winner, indulging fully in the electric atmosphere created by so many music legends gathered under one roof.
So, whether you tuned in to see who took home the coveted awards or just to watch your favorites shine, the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards delivered on its promise to celebrate the music we love and those who create it, marking another lively chapter in the ever-evolving story of music and awards shows.
