Earning 12 VMA nominations for the third time, Lady Gaga’s visual artistry continues reshaping music video standards in ways that make other pop stars scramble for their creative directors’ phone numbers. No other artist has achieved this triple crown of VMA recognition, cementing her status as the undisputed queen of music video craft.
Her collaboration with Bruno Mars on “Die With a Smile” isn’t just another celebrity team-up—it’s a masterclass in how two established artists can create something that feels both nostalgic and revolutionary.
The Numbers Tell the Story
This year’s nominations showcase Gaga’s range across multiple disciplines:
- Major Categories: Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, Song of the Year for “Die With a Smile“
- Technical Excellence: “Abracadabra” sweeps Direction, Art Direction, Cinematography, Editing, Choreography, and Visual Effects
- Genre Recognition: Best Pop Song and Best Collaboration for her Bruno Mars partnership
- Album Achievement: “MAYHEM” competes for Best Album against industry heavyweights
Cultural Impact Beyond the Categories
The 2025 VMAs, set for September 7 at UBS Arena, represent more than award show politics. They’re acknowledging what your TikTok algorithm already knows—visual storytelling drives music discovery now more than radio ever did.
“Gaga continues to prove that music videos aren’t promotional afterthoughts but art forms deserving serious recognition,” notes a longtime MTV executive. Her “Abracadabra” video demonstrates technical innovation that pushes boundaries while “Die With a Smile” shows how collaboration can elevate both artists’ creative visions.
Competing against Bad Bunny, Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and Taylor Swift in Artist of the Year proves this isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about sustained creative relevance in an industry obsessed with next week’s viral moment.
Setting the Standard for Visual Innovation
This historic nomination count signals something bigger than individual achievement. It confirms that in an era where artists drop singles weekly, the ones creating lasting visual experiences still capture both critical acclaim and cultural attention.
Your playlist might be algorithm-driven, but your most memorable music moments still happen when sound meets unforgettable imagery.
