LL Cool J is making his way back to the MTV Video Music Awards stage, this time as the solo host of the 2025 ceremony. The rap legend first held hosting duties in 2022, when he teamed up with Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow, but now he’s stepping into the spotlight on his own.
LL has deep ties to the VMAs. In 1991, he won his first Moon Person for Best Rap Video with “Mama Said Knock You Out.” By 1997, he made history as the first rapper to receive the Video Vanguard Award. Over the years, he’s returned to the stage with standout performances, from a Def Jam tribute in 2024 with Public Enemy to closing out the 2023 show alongside Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and other hip-hop icons during the Hip-Hop 50 celebration.
This year, LL is also a nominee. His track “Murdergram Deux” with Eminem, off his Q-Tip-produced album “The FORCE,” earned a nod for Best Hip-Hop. It’s his first nomination in a competitive category since 1996.
Meanwhile, the nomination leaderboard is stacked. Lady Gaga leads with 12, Bruno Mars and Kendrick Lamar follow with 10 each, and Rosé of BLACKPINK and Sabrina Carpenter secured eight apiece.
As for the coveted Video Vanguard Award, speculation is swirling. Katy Perry received it in 2024, and Shakira the year before. Names like Gaga, Bruno, and Mariah Carey are in the conversation for 2025.
The MTV VMAs air September 7th on CBS and stream on Paramount+.
