MTV VMAs Add Best Country Category

Chris Stapleton, Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson & More Among First-Ever Country Nominees

For the first time since its launch in 1984, the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) are embracing country music in a major way, by adding a brand-new Best Country category to the iconic awards show. The move marks a significant shift in how mainstream platforms are recognizing the visual storytelling power of modern country artists.

You can choose your winner – RIGHT HERE!

Country Music Finally Gets a Seat at the VMA Table

The MTV Video Music Awards, long known for its pop culture influence, wild performances, and unforgettable viral moments (yes, we’re still thinking about that Kanye–Taylor Swift interruption), has historically sidelined country artists in favor of pop, rap, and R&B. While country superstars like Taylor Swift and Kacey Musgraves have made appearances, the genre has never had a dedicated category, until now.

“Country music is having its moment, and MTV is finally paying attention.”

This year’s Best Country category represents a broader industry trend: country music is moving back into the cultural mainstream, and fans are being vocal about demanding representation.

2025 MTV Video Music Awards: Best Country Nominees

The inaugural MTV VMA Best Country category features a lineup that actually resonates with fans of the genre, no forced pop crossovers or controversial picks here. These are artists with deep country roots, compelling visuals, and a real presence in the scene.

The nominees include:

• Chris Stapleton – “Think I’m in Love with You” (Mercury Nashville)
• Cody Johnson with Carrie Underwood – “I’m Gonna Love You” (CoJo Music / Warner Music Nashville)
• Jelly Roll – “Liar” (BBR Music Group / BMG / Republic Records)
• Lainey Wilson – “4x4xU” (Broken Bow Records)
• Megan Moroney – “Am I Okay?” (Columbia Records)
• Morgan Wallen – “Smile” (Big Loud / Mercury Records)

“This is a list country fans can finally get behind,” notes longtime VMA watcher and industry writer Mary Claire Crabtree. “No Beyoncé. No Old Dominion. Just artists that country fans of all stripes respect.”

Fan Voting: A True Voice for Country Listeners?

One of the most intriguing aspects of the MTV VMAs is its fan voting system, something that could work in country music’s favor. Country listeners have long been some of the most dedicated and engaged fans in all of music. Now, with the ability to directly impact the outcome, we may see a real representation of what the public wants to see win.

Fan voting for most categories is open until September 5 at 6 PM ET, with voting for Best New Artist staying live through the broadcast. The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards will air live on Sunday, September 8 at 8 PM ET on CBS, MTV, and will stream on Paramount+.

Country Artists Also Featured in Other Categories

While this new category is a major breakthrough, country artists are also making waves in other VMA categories:

Artist of the Year:

• Morgan Wallen
• Taylor Swift
  (alongside Bad Bunny, Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, and The Weeknd)

Best New Artist:

• Ella Langley
  (joining Alex Warren, Gigi Perez, Lola Young, sombr, and The Marías)

Best Collaboration:

• Bailey Zimmerman & Luke Combs – “Backup Plan” (Stagecoach Official Video)
• Post Malone ft. Blake Shelton – “Pour Me a Drink”

This increasing visibility shows that country music isn’t just being tolerated at the VMAs, it’s starting to lead.

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Why the Change Now?

This move by MTV doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Earlier this year, Beyoncé’s controversial Grammy win for Best Country Album sparked a wave of backlash and conversation about how award shows define “country.” In response, the Grammys announced that they’ll split their Best Country Album into Traditional and Contemporary subcategories in 2026, mirroring what other genres have done.

While MTV hasn’t stated that the Grammy fallout inspired the VMA’s new category, the timing suggests the industry is finally recognizing the diversity and visual storytelling within country music.

“The genre is evolving. Artists like Jelly Roll and Lainey Wilson are bringing modern narratives to country music videos, and it’s time they’re recognized for it,” Crabtree explains.

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Why This Matters for the Genre

The introduction of a dedicated country music category at a culturally influential show like the VMAs could signal a new era for how country artists are marketed, perceived, and celebrated.

It also reflects a younger generation’s growing interest in the genre, fueled by artists who blend classic country storytelling with modern visuals, edgy style, and cross-genre appeal.

“The MTV Video Music Awards are finally catching up to what we’ve known for a while: country music belongs in the spotlight.”

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When & Where to Watch

• Event: 2025 MTV Video Music Awards
• Date: Sunday, September 8, 2025
• Time: 8 PM ET
• Where to Watch: CBS, MTV, Paramount+
• Fan Voting Ends: September 5 at 6 PM ET (except Best New Artist)

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Final Thoughts: A Big Win for Country Fans

Whether you’re a lifelong country fan or a curious newcomer, the MTV VMAs’ Best Country category is an exciting and long-overdue development. With respected artists like Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, Carrie Underwood, and Lainey Wilson leading the charge, fans can finally tune in and feel represented on one of music’s biggest stages.

So, dust off your boots, grab the remote, and don’t forget to vote for your favorite country artist, because for the first time ever, country music has a real voice at the VMAs.