It was a night of sisterhood, song, and unapologetic celebration as Billboard rolled out the pink carpet for its 2025 Women in Music Awards. Held tonight and hosted by Emmy nominee Laverne Cox, the annual event honored powerhouse artists, rising stars, and visionary executives who are pushing the music industry forward while breaking barriers along the way.
Laverne Cox opened the show with a heartfelt message about the emotional power of music, telling the audience, “It’s important to acknowledge how truly challenging these times are. For me, music allows me to release emotions I sometimes can’t name. Music can be a catalyst for contemplation, protest, mourning, resurrection and unspeakable joy.”
Headlining the night was Doechii, who was crowned 2025 Woman of the Year. Presented by DJ Miss Milan and Jayda Love, Doechii used her moment to spotlight the ongoing issues of inclusion and sexism in the industry. “In 2025, lack of inclusion and sexism are, unfortunately, still an issue in this industry. Which is why I’m grateful that we have Billboard Women in Music… And while I may be the one front and center who’s rapping, singing, and performing, I’m not doing this alone,” she said.
Other notable highlights included Meghan Trainor receiving the Hitmaker Award from Madison Beer, who praised her not only for her chart-topping hits but for penning songs for major artists behind the scenes. Trainor spoke candidly about songwriting being her therapy, revealing she writes to combat insecurity.
Megan Moroney was honored with the Rulebreaker Award, presented by Tanner Adell and Crown Royal, ahead of a powerhouse performance of her hit “Am I Okay.” GloRilla accepted the Powerhouse Award from country star Mickey Guyton, who applauded the Memphis rapper’s signature blend of femininity, grit, and optimism.
Gracie Abrams had the audience misty-eyed with her live rendition of viral ballad “I Love You, I’m Sorry” before accepting the Songwriter of the Year Award from Victoria Monét. “Songwriting is wild. It’s sometimes wildly embarrassing,” Abrams admitted. “It is our most private diary entries and our loudest clarion calls… I have been lucky to learn from and write with some of the most wonderful and talented people—The incomparable Ms. Taylor Swift! I will never stop pinching myself.”
Tyla lit up the stage with an unforgettable performance of “Push to Start” before receiving the Impact Award from Becky G. “You never know how something you say or do—a lyric, a performance—might ignite in someone else,” Tyla said. “I feel very lucky… to grow into all the different versions of myself as an artist and as a woman.”
The night also featured powerful moments of legacy and mentorship. Summer Walker presented the Icon Award to her mentor and music legend Erykah Badu, sharing that Badu was even her doula during childbirth. Muni Long delivered a stirring performance of “Superpowers” before accepting the Rising Star Award from Julia Michaels, via the Honda Stage.
Tina Knowles received the Mother of the Year Award from Billboard Editor-in-Chief Hannah Karp and reflected on the joys and challenges of raising her daughters while guiding their creative visions. “Thank you for letting me have creative input,” she said with emotion.
JENNIE of BLACKPINK took home the Global Force Award from Kali Uchis, while Mexican-American artist Ángela Aguilar wowed the audience with “Cielito Lindo” before accepting the Breakthrough Award from Lauren Jauregui. K-pop supergroup aespa won Group of the Year, presented by Suki Waterhouse, and turned the energy all the way up with a performance of “Whiplash.”
Zara Larsson presented the Global Women of the Year honors to Italian rapper ANNA and Canadian singer-songwriter Charlotte Cardin, highlighting international voices changing the game.
Celebrities in attendance included Ari Lennox, Ashe, Ava Max, Bella Poarch, Heidi Montag, JoJo Siwa, Kandi Burruss, Keyshia Cole, Loren Gray, Madison Bailey, Queen Naija, Sophia Culpo, Tinashe, Victoria Justice, and many more.
“This year’s Billboard Women in Music honorees embody the bold and fearless voices shaping the future of music,” said Hannah Karp, Billboard’s Editor-in-Chief. “From groundbreaking newcomers to legendary icons, each artist brings a distinct voice and passion that pushes boundaries and inspires the next generation.”
Dana Droppo, Billboard’s Chief Brand Officer, echoed the sentiment. “The energy in the room tonight was nothing short of magnetic and inspiring. We look forward to continuing to celebrate and uplift the women leading the Billboard charts for years to come.”