Country comes into its own with new category at MTV VMAs

More country artists than ever are in the running for MTV Video Music Awards, as the show adds a best country category in 2025.

Morgan Wallen is up for all-genre artist of the year, while Jelly Roll is the most-nominated country artist with four chances to win. He’s up for best hip-hop and video for good for “Somebody Save Me,” best alternative for “Lonely Road” and best country for “Liar.”

Ella Langley could take home the all-genre best new artist trophy. Bailey Zimmerman, Blake Shelton, Cody Johnson, Dasha, Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney and Ella are all first-time nominees this year. 

Bailey’s “Backup Plan” with Luke Combs vies for best collaboration against Post Malone and Blake’s “Pour Me a Drink.” Shaboozey and Dasha square off for MTV PUSH performance of the year.

Voting is open now online, with the 2025 VMAs set to air live from New York City Sept. 7 on CBS.

Here are the nominees in the new best country category:
Chris Stapleton — “Think I’m in Love with You”
Cody Johnson with Carrie Underwood — “I’m Gonna Love You”
Jelly Roll — “Liar”
Lainey Wilson — “4x4xU”
Megan Moroney — “Am I Okay”
Morgan Wallen — “Smile”