LOS ANGELES (March 29, 2025) – The Billboard Women in Music event once again shone a spotlight on the powerhouse artists, executives, and visionaries shaping the music industry today. Held at the iconic YouTube Theater in Los Angeles, the event was a dazzling celebration of the incredible talent, resilience, and innovation of women in music.
Hosted by Emmy® nominee Laverne Cox, the star-studded evening featured electrifying performances, emotional speeches, and well-deserved recognition for women who have made a lasting impact on the music industry. The night served as both a celebration and a call to action, acknowledging the challenges that women still face while highlighting the progress made.
A Night of Powerful Moments and Recognition
Laverne Cox set the tone for the evening with her heartfelt opening remarks, reflecting on music’s role in emotional expression and social change.
“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.”
The evening’s most anticipated honor, Woman of the Year, was awarded to Doechii, a trailblazing artist redefining hip-hop and R&B. Presented by DJ Miss Milan and Jayda Love, Doechii delivered a powerful acceptance speech, addressing the ongoing issues of sexism and lack of inclusion in the music industry.
“In 2025, lack of inclusion and sexism are, unfortunately, still an issue in this industry. That’s why I’m grateful for Billboard Women in Music. And while I may be the one front and center—rapping, singing, and performing—I’m not doing this alone. There are brilliant, savvy women on my personal and label teams standing alongside me.”
Other standout awards of the night included:
- Meghan Trainor received the Hitmaker Award, presented by Madison Beer, who praised Trainor not only as a hitmaker but also as a “powerhouse songwriter, penning songs for some of the biggest names in music.” In her speech, Trainor opened up about using songwriting as a tool to combat insecurity.
- Megan Moroney was honored with the Rulebreaker Award, presented by Crown Royal. Tanner Adell introduced Moroney ahead of her unforgettable performance of Am I Okay, celebrating her fearless authenticity and genre-defying style.
- GloRilla, a rising force in hip-hop, accepted the Powerhouse Award from Mickey Guyton, who praised her “dynamic voice, authenticity, and unique ability to combine femininity, toughness, and optimism.”
- Gracie Abrams, a viral sensation known for her emotionally raw songwriting, performed I Love You, I’m Sorry before receiving the Songwriter of the Year Award from Victoria Monét. Abrams, visibly moved, acknowledged the vulnerability of songwriting, calling it “wildly embarrassing, but also a hiding place and, sometimes, our very salvation.” She also paid tribute to Taylor Swift, expressing gratitude for the “gift of her pen, which very much raised me.”
- Tyla, winner of the Impact Award presented by Bose, was celebrated for her role in bringing South African culture to the global stage. Becky G, who presented the award, praised Tyla’s innovation before she set the stage on fire with a breathtaking performance of Push to Start. Teasing new music, Tyla reflected on the ripple effect of artistry: “You never know how something you say or do—a lyric, a performance—might ignite in someone else.”
- Erykah Badu, a music legend and mentor to countless artists, received the Icon Award, presented by Summer Walker. Walker, who considers Badu a mentor and even her doula, celebrated her influence on multiple generations of musicians.
- Muni Long delivered a show-stopping performance of Superpowers before accepting the Rising Star Award from Honda Stage and Julia Michaels.
- Tina Knowles, the matriarch of one of the most influential musical families, was honored with the Mother of the Year Award, presented by Billboard Editor-in-Chief Hannah Karp. In a touching speech, she spoke about the challenges and rewards of motherhood, thanking her daughters for allowing her to guide and support them.
- Jennie, from global phenomenon BLACKPINK, was awarded the Global Force Award, presented by Kali Uchis, recognizing her immense influence on music and culture worldwide.
- Ángela Aguilar, a rising Latin music star, mesmerized the audience with a stirring performance of Cielito Lindo before accepting the Breakthrough Award from Lauren Jauregui.
- aespa, the K-pop supergroup, won Group of the Year, presented by Suki Waterhouse. They later delivered an explosive performance of Whiplash, cementing their status as one of the most dynamic girl groups in music today.
- ANNA (Italian rapper) and Charlotte Cardin (Canadian singer-songwriter) received the Global Women of the Year Awards, celebrating international excellence in music. Zara Larsson, who presented the awards, emphasized their contributions to global music.
A Star-Studded Event
The night brought together some of the biggest names in entertainment, including 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 more.
Hannah Karp, Editor-in-Chief of Billboard, expressed her admiration for this year’s honorees:
“These women embody the bold and fearless voices shaping the future of music. 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 this sentiment:
“The energy in the room tonight was magnetic and inspiring. We look forward to continuing to celebrate and uplift the women leading the Billboard charts for years to come.”
Where to Watch
The event was streamed live via VIZIO WatchFree+, allowing fans worldwide to experience the unforgettable night. Those who missed the live show can watch the event on demand by opening WatchFree+ on their VIZIO TVs or mobile devices.
A Legacy of Empowerment
The Billboard Women in Music Awards has long been a coveted honor, with past Woman of the Year recipients including SZA, Olivia Rodrigo, Cardi B, Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Madonna, Lady Gaga, and Taylor Swift.
With sponsors like Bose, Crown Royal, HarbourView Equity Partners, Honda Stage, and Sol de Janeiro, the event continues to elevate the achievements of women in music.
About Billboard
Billboard is the ultimate barometer of success in music. Through its iconic charts, breaking news, multi-platform storytelling, and world-class events, Billboard tracks the world’s top musicians and the business that powers them. Founded in 1894, Billboard is the most trusted source for music information, spanning over a dozen countries and published in ten languages.
Sponsors & Partners
- VIZIO: A leader in Smart TVs and entertainment technology, bringing immersive experiences to homes worldwide.
- YouTube Theater: A state-of-the-art venue in Inglewood, CA, hosting top concerts and live events.
- HarbourView Equity Partners: An investment firm focused on premium content in entertainment, sports, and media.
- Honda Stage: A music program celebrating determined artists and unique music experiences.
- Bose Corporation: A global leader in premium audio technology.
- Crown Royal: The world’s #1 selling Canadian whisky brand, known for its smooth elegance.
- Diageo North America: A global leader in premium spirits, including Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, and Casamigos.
- Girls Make Beats: A nonprofit empowering young girls in music production, DJing, and audio engineering.
- Sol de Janeiro: An award-winning beauty brand inspired by Brazil’s warmth and beauty rituals.
With sponsors like these, Billboard Women in Music continues to elevate and empower the women leading the industry.
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