Uploaded September 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago

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The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards took place last night — but does anyone care? The annual award show debuted on CBS (yes, CBS) with host LL Cool J setting the apolitical tone: Shut up and sing!

The show featured appearances, performances and awards wins by Lady Gaga, Mariah Carey, Sabrina Carpenter and more.

Music journalist Sowmya Krishnamurthy breaks down the starkly safe and boring tone of the show, the awards, and asks the big question: Are the MTV VMAs still relevant in 2025 — or is this just nostalgia in disguise?

sowmyak.substack.com/p/safe-boring-and-politically-correct

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#music #pop #celebrity