The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards are set to deliver one of the most emotional and unforgettable moments in recent rock history. On Sunday, September 7, the UBS Arena in New York will host a powerhouse tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, the Prince of Darkness who forever changed the sound of heavy metal.
The stage will bring together a rare lineup of legends and rising stars: Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Nuno Bettencourt of Extreme, and British rocker Yungblud. Together, they’ll perform a special medley of Ozzy’s most iconic songs, honoring not only his groundbreaking work with Black Sabbath but also the enduring solo career that gave fans classics like “Crazy Train” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home.”
For some of these artists, the tribute carries a personal history. Tyler and Bettencourt performed with Ozzy during his emotional final concert in Birmingham, creating a poignant connection to this farewell celebration. Yungblud also has a deep bond with the metal legend, having collaborated with him in 2022 and even receiving a personal gift from Ozzy himself — a symbol of his support for the next generation of rock artists.
Since his passing in July, tributes have poured in from across the world, and Aerosmith were among the many who mourned the loss of their peer and friend. “We lost one of the true giants,” they shared in a heartfelt statement, calling Ozzy a central figure in the evolution of modern rock.
The VMAs, hosted by LL Cool J, promise a night of both nostalgia and celebration. Alongside the Ozzy tribute, viewers will see performances from Lady Gaga, Doja Cat, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, and more, while music icons like Mariah Carey, Ricky Martin, and Busta Rhymes will also be honored.
Broadcast live on CBS and MTV, and streaming on Paramount+, the ceremony will give fans around the world a chance to witness rock royalty gather in Ozzy’s honor. More than just a tribute performance, it will be a reminder of how deeply Ozzy Osbourne shaped the soundtrack of generations — and how his influence will never fade.
The 2025 MTV VMAs air Sunday, September 7, from UBS Arena in New York.
