Doja Cat Goes Totally ‘80s to Open VMAs With Kenny G

Doja Cat’s new '80s-inspired creative era was put on full display during the opening of the 2025 MTV VMAs. Following an introduction by LL Cool J and a retro digital clip reminiscent of Max Headroom, she took the stage to a saxophone performance by '80s icon Kenny G. Surrounded by a boldly nostalgic set featuring pink squiggles, a checkerboard floor, and dancers in Kangol hats, she delivered “Jealous Type”—a clear nod to the channel’s classic music video aesthetic.

The performance also offered a first look at her upcoming fifth studio album, “Vie,” set for release on September 26. Her previous album, 2023’s “Scarlet,” debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and produced two major hits: the No. 1 single “Paint the Town Red” and “Agora Hills,” which peaked at No. 7. In support of that album, Doja embarked on the international Scarlet Tour, which began on Halloween in San Francisco and concluded on July 14 at London’s Finsbury Park—a 20,000-capacity outdoor venue that has previously hosted summer shows by artists like The 1975 and Liam Gallagher.

This year’s VMAs featured a packed roster of performers across two stages. The main show included sets from Alex Warren, Busta Rhymes, Conan Gray, J Balvin, DJ Snake, Justin Quiles, Lenny Tavárez, Jelly Roll, Lady Gaga, Mariah Carey, Post Malone, Ricky Martin, Sabrina Carpenter, Sombr, Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Yungblud, Nuno Bettencourt, and Tate McRae. The Extended Play stage, meanwhile, showcased emerging talent such as Bailey Zimmerman, The Kid Laroi, Lola Young, and Megan Moroney.

A wide array of presenters also took part in the ceremony, including Alix Earle, Ashlee Simpson Ross, Brittany Snow, Ciara, Drew Barrymore, Ice Spice, Jessica Simpson, Ejae, Audrey Nuna, Rei Ami, Latto, Lenny Kravitz, Livvy Dunne, Luke Grimes, Malin Akerman, Megan Stalter, Nikki Glaser, Paris Hilton, and Rosé. According to music industry analyst Mara Jenkins, “This blend of legacy stars and fresh faces reflects MTV’s ongoing effort to bridge generational divides while maintaining cultural currency.”

The competition for Video of the Year was especially fierce, with nominees including Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Rosé, Sabrina Carpenter, The Weeknd, and Playboi Carti. The diversity of genres represented—from pop and hip-hop to alternative—highlights the continued relevance and artistic ambition of the music video format in today’s multimedia landscape.