Entertainment
Full Highlights from the 2025 iHeartRadio Awards Show
The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards took place on March 17 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, celebrating the most-played artists and songs across iHeartRadio stations and the iHeartRadio app throughout the past year. The evening was marked by standout performances, heartfelt speeches, and memorable moments that highlighted the diversity and talent within the music industry.
Opening Act: Billie Eilish and Finneas
The ceremony commenced with a captivating performance by sibling duo Billie Eilish and Finneas. Their synergy set an energetic tone for the night, engaging the audience from the outset.
Nelly’s Abrupt Speech Cut
In an unexpected moment, Nelly’s acceptance speech was interrupted by a sudden commercial break. The abrupt cut left both the artist and viewers surprised, causing conversations about live broadcast protocols.
Doechii’s Tribute to Lady Gaga
Rising artist Doechii took a moment to honor Lady Gaga, acknowledging her as a future industry innovator. This gesture represented the mutual respect and admiration among artists across different stages of their careers.
Gracie Abrams’ Breakthrough Award
Gracie Abrams was presented with the Breakthrough Award by her close friend Billie Eilish. The moment was a testament to their shared journey in the music industry and the bonds formed through artistic endeavors.
Mariah Carey’s Icon Award and Performance
Mariah Carey was honored with the Icon Award, celebrating her enduring impact on the music industry. She delivered a performance that reminded everyone of her vocal prowess and stage presence. In her acceptance speech, Carey paid tribute to her late mother, Patricia Carey, acknowledging her for imparting the gift of music.
Lady Gaga’s Innovator Award
Lady Gaga received the Innovator Award, recognizing her significant contributions to music and culture. In her speech, she embraced the dual feelings of longevity and new beginnings in her career, highlighting the importance of authenticity and self-made innovation. She dedicated the award to her grandmothers and urged artists to remain true to themselves and their uniqueness.
Taylor Swift’s Virtual Appearance
Taylor Swift, who was honored with the Tour of the Century award for her record-breaking Eras Tour, made a virtual appearance during the ceremony. Her background setup during the virtual acceptance sparked speculation and discussions among fans, showcasing her continued ability to engage and intrigue her audience.
Bad Bunny’s Energetic Performance
Bad Bunny delivered an electrifying performance of his song “EoO” from his latest album “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS.” Dressed in an oversized white coat, he interacted dynamically with the audience, including a memorable trust fall and crowd-surfing over dancers, further cementing his reputation as a dynamic performer.
Benson Boone’s Song of the Year
Benson Boone’s genuine surprise and excitement upon winning Song of the Year for “Beautiful Things” became an instant meme, endearing him to fans worldwide and highlighting the authenticity that resonates with audiences.
GloRilla’s Recognition
GloRilla was honored as the hip-hop artist of the year, acknowledging her contributions and impact within the genre over the past year.
Also, this year’s iHeartRadio Music Awards also paid tribute to the resiliency and rebuilding of Los Angeles following the devastating wildfires affecting the entire community. The event drove donations to FireAidLA.org, with contributions distributed under the advisement of the Annenberg Foundation for short-term relief efforts and long-term initiatives to prevent future fire disasters.
Notable Winners
- Song of the Year: “Beautiful Things” by Benson Boone
- Artist of the Year: Taylor Swift
- Best Collaboration: “Die With A Smile” by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars
- Pop Artist of the Year: Sabrina Carpenter
- Country Artist of the Year: Jelly Roll
- Hip-Hop Song of the Year: “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar
- R&B Artist of the Year: SZA
- Best New Artist (Pop): Teddy Swims
- Best New Artist (Country): Shaboozey
- Best New Artist (Hip-Hop): BossMan Dlow
- World Artist of the Year: Tyla
The long-awaited trial in the murder case of legendary rapper Tupac Shakur has reached a major development, with Duane “Keffe D” Davis sentenced to 40 years to life in prison on October 13, 2026.
Davis was convicted of first-degree murder in August 2026 for his role in orchestrating the 1996 killing. Tupac was shot in a drive-by attack in Las Vegas on September 7, 1996, and died six days later.
During the sentencing, the judge addressed Davis, rejecting his claims that he had changed his life and moved on from his past. “Mr. Davis, for three years, I’ve heard you say some variation of the same thing to law enforcement, [in interviews], in your book, and it’s something like, ‘Yeah, I was involved in this, but I’m different. I’ve moved on. I got out of Compton. I’m a grandfather now.’ I’m here to tell you that’s not how this works,” the judge said.
She continued “You don’t get to take a man from his family. You don’t get to take his very life, his whole future from him, and just walk away from it. Especially when that man is Tupac Shakur.
“The world never forgot about him and his death, and neither did Las Vegas. It took us 30 years, but at this time, you are going to face justice for what you did on Sept. 7, 1996.”
Nollywood actor Timini Egbuson has reflected on how his perception of YouTube movies has changed over the years. The actor recalled that there was a time when he looked down on movies released on YouTube.
However, he now appreciates the opportunities they have provided for his career and joked that he might have struggled financially if he had continued to dismiss them.
Sharing his thoughts in a post on X, Egbuson wrote “Can’t believe I was looking down on YouTube movies at some point. Hunger go don kpai me by now.”
Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has advised young people who are still living with their parents not to rush into moving out because of peer pressure.
The singer encouraged young people to focus on their personal circumstances rather than compare their lives with those of others. He noted that there is no need to leave their parents’ homes simply because they want to feel independent.
Sharing his advice, Dakolo said “No hurry, leave your papa house because of peer pressure. Forget all that, ‘I don’t have my freedom here.’”
Judge Tells Duane Davis He Must Face Justice for Tupac’s Murder
Timini Egbuson Reflects on Embracing YouTube Movies in Nollywood
