The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards are almost here, and several of this year's biggest artists are set to take over the stage at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles on March 17th, alongside the show's just-announced host — hip hop icon LL Cool J.
Performing artists at this year's show include Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, Kenny Chesney, Muni Long, Nelly and more.
And ahead of his hosting duties, LL Cool J explained of the upcoming festivities, "Excited to be back on the iHeartRadio stage to host this year’s awards. It's going to be a night to remember—big energy, iconic moments, and special collaborations you won't want to miss."
In addition to performing, Nelly will receive the 2025 iHeartRadio Landmark Award, which honors artists whose album releases have inspired and shaped culture over multiple decades. Nelly made an explosive debut in 2000 with Country Grammar, an album that has sold over 10 million copies worldwide and set the foundation for his iconic career. He further solidified his superstar status with Nellyville (2002), featuring chart-topping hits like "Hot in Herre" and "Dilemma" with Kelly Rowland—songs that earned him two of his three Grammy Awards. With over 21 million albums sold in the U.S., globally, his total record sales, encompassing both albums and singles, have surpassed 75 million units. This double diamond-selling artist ranks among one of the best-selling rap artists of all time. This performance kicks off his "Where The Party At" worldwide tour.
Fans can tune in to the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Monday, March 17 on FOX from 8:00-10:00pm ET live/PT tape-delayed. The show will also be broadcast on iHeartRadio stations nationwide and on the free iHeartRadio app.
The 12th annual iHeartRadio Music Awards, taking place on March 17, will celebrate the most-played artists and songs on iHeartRadio stations and the iHeartRadio app throughout 2024, while also offering a preview of the upcoming hits of 2025. Leading the nominations this year are Kendrick Lamar, Morgan Wallen, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift with Swift's "Era's Tour" being recognized as "Tour of the Century."
Additionally, the 2025 iHeartRadio Innovator Award will be presented to Mother Monster herself, Lady Gaga. Few artists in modern history have taken creative risks with the level of success of Gaga. One of the best-selling musicians of all time, she is the true definition of a modern day artist innovator. Gaga has created music that topped the charts for years at multiple formats, while architecting groundbreaking tours and delivering powerful and versatile performances in film and TV. Beyond creating music and performances that have inspired the world, Lady Gaga is an outspoken activist, philanthropist and supporter of many important issues including mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, HIV/AIDS awareness and body image issues. In 2012, she launched Born This Way Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering youth, embracing differences, and inspiring kindness and bravery.
Mariah Carey will also be honored with the 2025 iHeartRadio Icon Award, celebrating her incredible and influential career as singer, songwriter, and producer, who has broken virtually every chart and touring record around the globe. Carey is one of the best-selling artists of all time with over 200 million records sold worldwide and 19 #1 singles. Beyond all the accolades, Carey has always been a fiercely independent artist who set the bar for female stars today. Her 5-octave range and iconic whistle register are still a reference point for every vocalist who has followed in her footsteps. 2025 also marks the 20th anniversary of her album The Emancipation of Mimi, that left an indelible mark on the music landscape and inspired countless of artists following its release.
This year’s iHeartRadio Music Awards will also pay tribute to the resiliency and rebuilding of Los Angeles following the devastating wildfires affecting the entire community and will drive donations to FireAidLA.org. Contributions made to FireAid will be distributed under the advisement of the Annenberg Foundation, for short-term relief efforts and long-term initiatives to prevent future fire disasters. The Annenberg Foundation, with decades of philanthropic leadership in the community, including rapid response, will help coordinate a team to direct funds for the greatest impact.