iHeartRadio Music Awards Host and Performers Revealed (Exclusive)

The iHeartRadio Music Awards are almost here.

PEOPLE can exclusively reveal that LL Cool J is returning to host the awards show. “Excited to be back on the iHeartRadio stage to host this year’s awards,” the “Mama Said Knock You Out” singer said in a statement. “It’s going to be a night to remember—big energy, iconic moments, and special collaborations you won’t want to miss.”

LL Cool J, 57, previously hosted and performed at the 2022 awards show, singing fan favorites such as “Rampage” and “The Boomin System” to open up the ceremony

The iHeartRadio Music Awards celebrates musicians and songs that are the most played on radio stations throughout the past year. The awards show also gives fans a glimpse at what to expect the most popular music will be in 2025.

This year’s performers include Billie Eilish, Bad Bunny, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, Kenny Chesney, Muni Long and Nelly, the latter whose Where the Party At worldwide tour kicks off with the award show appearance.

Nelly is slated to receive the 2025 iHeartRadio Landmark Award this year, honoring artists whose “album releases have inspired and shaped culture over multiple decades.”

Meanwhile, 14-time Grammy winner Lady Gaga is the recipient of the 2025 iHeartRadio Innovator Award. Mariah Carey, the bestselling female artist of all time, will take home the 2025 iHeartRadio Icon Award. 

Taylor Swift, who is nominated for 10 awards including artist of the year, will also be celebrated for her record-breaking Eras Tour as the Tour of the Century. The tour launched two years ago to the day of this year’s telecast, and an exclusive performance from that opening night concert in Arizona will premiere during the show.

Leading the nominations along with Swift, 35, is Morgan Wallen with 10 nods. Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone and Sabrina Carpenter trail them with nine nominations each.

To participate in choosing winners, fans are able to vote in these categories: favorite soundtrack, favorite Broadway debut, favorite K-pop dance challenge, favorite surprise guest, favorite tour tradition, best lyrics, best music video, favorite tour style, favorite tour photographer and favorite on screen.

Fans can vote for these categories until Monday, March 10, at 11:59 p.m. PST at iheart.com/music-awards/.

In addition to celebrating music, the iHeartRadio Music Awards will also pay tribute to those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires, driving donations towards Fireaidla.org. Contributions will go towards short-term relief efforts and longer-term planning to prevent future devastating blazes.

The 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards air live from the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles on Monday, March 17, at 8 p.m. ET on FOX. Fans can also tune in live to iHeartRadio stations nationwide and on the iHeartRadio app.