Get ready to witness music history in the making! Tonight, the iHeartRadio Awards are about to get a whole lot cooler, as the legendary LL Cool J takes the stage to make his mark. With a star-studded lineup featuring the likes of Billie Eilish, Kenny Chesney, and many more, this year’s ceremony promises to be an unforgettable celebration of music’s hottest talent.
As the anticipation builds, fans are buzzing with excitement, eager to see their favorite artists take home top honors and deliver show-stopping performances. But what makes this year’s event truly special is LL Cool J’s historic moment, one that will cement his status as a music icon.
How to Watch LL Cool J Make iHeartRadio Awards History Tonight
Get ready to witness a night of iconic performances, special collaborations, and big energy with top artists like Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, Kenny Chesney, Muni Long, Nelly, and more at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, hosted by LL Cool J, airing live from Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Monday, March 17 (8-10 p.m. ET live/PT tape-delayed) on FOX.
The event will feature award presentations in multiple categories, live performances from the biggest artists in music, surprise guests, and collaborations, showcasing the stories of the winning artists’ road to #1.
The Event
What to Expect
A night of iconic performances, special collaborations, and big energy with top artists like Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, Kenny Chesney, Muni Long, Nelly, and more.
Award Presentations
Celebrate the most-played artists and songs on iHeartRadio stations and the iHeartRadio app with award presentations in multiple categories.
Live Performances
Enjoy exclusive performances from the biggest artists in music, surprise guests, and collaborations.
The Awards
Nominees and Winners
Check out the nominees and winners in categories like artist of the year, best lyrics, best music video, favorite tour style, and more.
Award Recipients
Learn about the prestigious awards being presented, including the iHeartRadio Innovator Award, Icon Award, Landmark Award, and Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award.
Performing Artists
Performing artists at this year’s show include Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, Kenny Chesney, Muni Long, Nelly, and more.
Nelly will receive the 2025 iHeartRadio Landmark Award, honoring artists whose album releases have inspired and shaped culture over multiple decades.
Special Appearances
Airing Monday, March 17 on FOX, the event will feature special appearances by Becky G, Billy Idol, Feid, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, Joel McHale, Kekoa Kekumano, Kelsea Ballerini, Offset, Robin Thicke, Scott Caan, Sexyy Red, Victoria Monét, and more.
Gracie Abrams to Receive 2025 iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award
Hosted by LL COOL J, the event will feature performances by Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, Kenny Chesney, Muni Long, Nelly, Tori Kelly, and more.
Gracie Abrams will be honored with the 2025 iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award, celebrating her achievements to date and continued trajectory.
iHeartRadio Music Awards
The 12th annual iHeartRadio Music Awards 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.
The show will feature award presentations in multiple categories, live performances from the biggest artists in music, surprise guests, and collaborations.
Proud Partners
Proud partners of this year’s event across iHeart platforms include David’s Bridal and e.l.f. Beauty.
Executive Producers
Executive producers for the iHeartRadio Music Awards are Joel Gallen, for Tenth Planet; and John Sykes, Tom Poleman, and Bart Peters for iHeartMedia.
Gracie Abrams’ Breakthrough
Gracie Abrams is set to receive the prestigious 2025 iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award, a recognition that underscores her meteoric rise in the music industry. This honor is a testament to her exceptional talent and the impact she has had on her audience, particularly the younger generation. Over the past few years, Abrams has garnered a massive following with her deeply personal and vulnerable songwriting, which has resonated with millions of listeners worldwide. Her music, characterized by its raw emotional honesty, has captivated audiences and positioned her as a rising star in the music scene.
Abrams’ breakthrough is not merely about her musical prowess but also her advocacy for women’s rights and political awareness, particularly among the Gen Z audience. Her ability to blend artistry with activism has earned her a unique connection with her fans, making her a role model for many. This award recognizes not only her incredible talent but also her journey and the unique bond she shares with her supporters.
The 2025 iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award is more than just a trophy; it is a validation of Abrams’ potential and a boost for her future endeavors. As she continues to pen deeply personal songs and perform on some of the biggest stages, including recent appearances at Taylor Swift’s |The Eras Tour, the recognition serves as a stepping stone for her evolving career. This accolade is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and the impact she has had on the music industry.
Gracie Abrams’ rise to stardom is a story of perseverance and authenticity. Her music, which often delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, has struck a chord with a wide audience. Her ability to connect with listeners on a personal level is a key factor in her success. The iHeartRadio Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award not only celebrates her achievements to date but also highlights her continued trajectory in the music industry.
The Host and Performers
LL Cool J’s Return
LL Cool J is set to host the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, marking his return to the prestigious event. This is a significant milestone as he becomes the first repeat host in the show’s 12-year history, having previously hosted the event in 2022. His hosting duties entail bringing his charismatic presence and extensive experience in the entertainment industry to the forefront, ensuring a memorable and engaging event for viewers.
LL Cool J’s return to the iHeartRadio Music Awards is highly anticipated, given his illustrious career and his experience hosting major events. He has previously hosted the Grammy Awards for five consecutive years (2012-2016), the Soul Train Music Awards (1996-1997), the NAACP Image Awards (2007), and the MTV Music Video Awards (2022). His extensive background in hosting and his ability to connect with a diverse audience make him an ideal choice for the iHeartRadio Music Awards.
As the host, LL Cool J will be responsible for managing the flow of the event, introducing performances, and engaging with the audience. His role is pivotal in creating a seamless and entertaining experience for viewers. His expertise and professionalism are expected to contribute to a successful and memorable event, making him a perfect fit for the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Performers Lineup
The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards boasts an impressive lineup of performers, featuring some of the biggest names in the music industry. The event will showcase performances by Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, Kenny Chesney, Muni Long, Nelly, and more. This diverse lineup reflects the broad spectrum of musical genres and the evolving tastes of the audience.
Billie Eilish, known for her distinctive voice and emotive lyrics, is set to perform at the event. Her presence adds a layer of depth and emotional resonance to the night. Kenny Chesney, a country music icon, will bring his classic style to the stage, appealing to fans of traditional country music. The addition of Gracie Abrams to the lineup further highlights the event’s commitment to showcasing emerging talent and diverse musical styles.
The performances at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards are expected to be a highlight of the event, offering viewers a mix of established artists and rising stars. The diverse lineup ensures that there is something for everyone, from pop and rock to country and hip-hop. This variety is a testament to the inclusive nature of the music industry and the broad appeal of the iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Special Appearances
The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards will feature several special appearances by notable figures in the entertainment industry. Becky G, Billy Idol, Feid, Jenny McCarthy-Wahlberg, Joel McHale, Kekoa Kekumano, Kelsea Ballerini, Offset, Robin Thicke, Scott Caan, Sexyy Red, and Victoria Monét are among the stars who will grace the stage. These appearances add an extra layer of excitement and entertainment value to the event.
Becky G, known for her vibrant performances and energetic stage presence, will bring her unique style to the awards. Billy Idol, a rock legend, will add a touch of classic rock to the event, appealing to fans of the genre. Feid, a rising star in the Latin music scene, will bring his distinctive sound and cultural influence to the stage. These special appearances are designed to enhance the overall experience for viewers, offering a mix of different musical styles and entertainment formats.
The inclusion of special appearances by these notable figures underscores the event’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The special guests bring their unique perspectives and talents to the stage, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. The presence of these stars not only adds to the entertainment value but also highlights the broad appeal of the iHeartRadio Music Awards.
The Host and Performers
How to Watch
Viewers can tune in to the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards on several platforms, ensuring that fans worldwide can enjoy the event. The event will air live on FOX from 8:00-10:00 p.m. ET live/PT tape-delayed, providing a prime-time viewing experience. This broadcast ensures that viewers in different time zones can watch the event at their convenience.
Additionally, the event will be broadcast on iHeartMedia radio stations nationwide, reaching a wide audience through radio waves. This ensures that fans who prefer listening to the event can still enjoy the performances and announcements. The iHeartRadio app will also stream the event, offering a digital platform for viewers to watch and listen to the awards.
The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards will also be available on various streaming platforms, making it accessible to a global audience. Viewers can check out the event on these platforms, providing them with the flexibility to watch the awards from anywhere in the world. The availability on multiple platforms ensures that the event reaches a wide and diverse audience, reflecting the global nature of the music industry.
For those who prefer to watch the event online, there are several streaming options available. The event will be streamed on FOX’s official website and various other streaming platforms. This allows viewers to watch the awards from the comfort of their homes or on their mobile devices, providing a convenient and accessible viewing experience. The presence on multiple platforms ensures that the event reaches a broad audience, catering to different preferences and viewing habits.
The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards promises to be an unforgettable event, featuring a diverse lineup of performers, special appearances, and a host who brings extensive experience and charisma to the stage. Whether viewers prefer to watch the event on television, listen to it on the radio, or stream it online, there are numerous options available to enjoy the awards. The event’s availability on multiple platforms underscores its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that fans worldwide can enjoy the excitement and entertainment of the iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Conclusion
As the curtains close on the iHeartRadio Awards, one thing is clear: LL Cool J has cemented his place in music history. The article highlighted the significance of this event, featuring an all-star lineup including Billie Eilish and Kenny Chesney. The evening’s performances and award presentations showcased the diversity and talent that define the music industry today. By honoring LL Cool J’s contributions, the iHeartRadio Awards reinforced the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of music legends. The event also underscored the impact of LL Cool J’s career on the music industry, paving the way for future generations of artists.
The implications of this historic event extend far beyond the awards ceremony itself. As the music industry continues to evolve, it is essential to acknowledge and learn from the past while embracing innovation and change. The iHeartRadio Awards demonstrated the power of music to bring people together, transcend genres, and create a sense of community. As we move forward, it will be exciting to see how the music industry continues to grow and adapt, with events like the iHeartRadio Awards playing a significant role in shaping its future. The celebration of LL Cool J’s legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of music on our culture and society, inspiring new artists and fans alike to push the boundaries of creativity and excellence.
As we reflect on the significance of LL Cool J’s achievement, we are reminded that music has the power to transcend time, generations, and genres. The iHeartRadio Awards ceremony will be remembered as a testament to the enduring legacy of a music icon, and the event’s impact will be felt for years to come. As the music industry continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the influence of LL Cool J’s groundbreaking career will be felt for generations to come, inspiring a new wave of artists to make their mark on the music industry. And so, as the music plays on, we are left to ponder the profound impact of a single artist on the course of music history, and the infinite possibilities that the future holds for those who dare to create and innovate.