American Music Awards 2025: Bright victories, unexpected contenders and star-studded shows
The 51st American Music Awards were held in Las Vegas on May 26 at the Fontainebleau Concert Hall in Nevada. Jennifer Lopez hosted the evening and also performed on stage as one of the main stars.
Singer Billie Eilish surprised everyone by winning all seven nominations in which she was presented. She was unable to attend the ceremony, but her victories included the main categories: Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” and Song of the Year for “Birds of a Feather.”
This year’s awards were also notable for unusual victories, as Beyoncé became the first country artist to win in this category.
Other honorees included Kendrick Lamar, who won Favorite Hip-Hop Song for “Not Like Us,” and SZA, who won two awards in the R&B categories.
Janet Jackson received the 2025 Icon Award and made her first televised appearance in seven years, performing “Someone to Call My Lover” and “All for You.”
Rod Stewart, 80, also took the stage to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his classic song “Forever Young.”
The evening also featured performances by Blake Shelton, Gloria Estefan, Gwen Stefani, and numerous other artists.
Gracie Abrams was named New Artist of the Year.
This year’s winners include:
- Collaboration of the Year — “Die With A Smile” (Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars)
- Favorite Music Video — “Die With A Smile” (Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars)
- Social Song of the Year — “Anxiety” (Doechii)
- Favorite Touring Artist — Billie Eilish
- Favorite Pop Artist — Bruno Mars
- Favorite Female Pop Artist — Billie Eilish
- Favorite Pop Performance — “Strike Me and Soft,” Billie Eilish
- Favorite Pop Song — “Birds of a Feather” by Billie Eilish
The 2025 AMAs were a celebration of music that proved that art always has the power to unite, amaze, and inspire.
