It was an unforgettable night at the UBS Arena in New York as Blackpink’s Rosé clinched the coveted Song of the Year award at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards for her chart-topping collaboration “APT” with Bruno Mars.
The 28-year-old singer, visibly emotional as she stepped on stage, used the moment not just to thank her fans, but also to reflect on her own resilience. With her voice trembling, she admitted, “As my therapist reminds me daily, I want to thank myself for never giving up, even during the hardest times.”
What started as a lighthearted experiment in the studio evolved into a global hit that resonated far beyond expectations. “APT” debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 before breaking into the Top 5—an achievement that made Rosé the first female K-pop soloist to ever reach that height. The single also found success in Africa, climbing the TurnTable Top 100 Nigeria from No. 78 to No. 35, signaling her growing global footprint.
Leading the pack with nine nominations this year, Rosé took a moment to dedicate her win to her teenage self. “Someone recently asked me what I feared most in life, and I realised it was the thought of letting down that younger version of me—the oddball who dreamed of a day she could belong and chase her dreams like those she admired on TV,” she shared with the crowd.
Her speech also carried a heartfelt nod to Bruno Mars, her partner on the record. She described him as not just a collaborator, but an idol and mentor who guided her through the creative process. “Bruno, you’ve been an incredible teacher. Thank you for believing in me and helping create this world together. I can’t wait to call you after this. I hope you’re proud,” she said warmly.
With “APT” now etched into MTV VMA history, Rosé continues to solidify her place as one of the most influential artists of her generation. Her win stands as a defining highlight of the 2025 ceremony, underscoring not only her artistic talent but also her ability to connect deeply with audiences across the globe.
