LAS VEGAS, NV — The 51st Annual American Music Awards (AMAs) returned with grandeur on May 26, 2025, held at the newly opened Fontainebleau Las Vegas. After a two-year hiatus, the celebrated music awards show made a triumphant comeback with a dazzling display of talent, style, and tributes.
Hosted by global superstar Jennifer Lopez, the ceremony marked a new era for the AMAs, being broadcast for the first time on CBS and streamed live on Paramount+. The event drew music fans from across the country, eager to see the return of the beloved fan-voted awards.
An Evening of Wins, Honors, and Showstoppers
The standout of the night was undeniably Billie Eilish, who swept the awards with seven wins. Her accolades included the coveted Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for HIT ME HARD AND SOFT, and Song of the Year for the emotional ballad “Birds of a Feather.”
Eilish’s dominance was a testament to her creative evolution and enduring popularity. Accepting her awards with humility, she credited her fans and creative team, remarking, “This is a dream come true every single time. Thank you for believing in my weird little songs.”
Kendrick Lamar led with ten nominations but walked away without any wins, a surprising twist in a night full of unexpected turns.
Tributes to Legends and First-Ever Honors
The ceremony also spotlighted music legends. Janet Jackson received the prestigious Icon Award for her decades-long impact on pop and R&B, delivering a heartfelt acceptance speech that brought the crowd to its feet.
Rod Stewart was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his illustrious six-decade career. The rock icon performed a medley of hits, showcasing the energy and charisma that have defined his musical journey.
In a meaningful addition, the AMAs introduced the Veterans Voice Award, recognizing contributions of artists with military service or veteran advocacy. The inaugural recipient, Zac Brown, was honored for his philanthropic efforts and support of veteran causes.
Jennifer Lopez Lights Up the Stage
Jennifer Lopez not only hosted the event but also kicked off the show with a high-octane medley that compressed 23 iconic tracks into a breathtaking six-minute performance. Among the songs were her own hits as well as snippets from Madonna, Usher, and Dua Lipa.
Lopez’s performance ended with a dramatic twist as she shared a surprise kiss with both a male and a female dancer. The moment generated buzz both in the arena and across social media platforms, instantly becoming one of the most talked-about highlights.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Performers and Presenters
The ceremony featured a wide array of performances from music’s biggest names. Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton teamed up for a country-pop duet, Gloria Estefan delivered a powerful tribute to Latin heritage, and newcomers like Benson Boone and Reneé Rapp showcased rising talent.
Other performances included Lainey Wilson, Becky G with Manuel Turizo, and Alex Warren. Rod Stewart and Janet Jackson also graced the stage with solo performances to accompany their honors.
Presenters added further glamour to the night, including appearances by Ciara, Cara Delevingne, Tiffany Haddish, and popular streamer Kai Cenat.
2025 American Music Awards: Full List of Major Winners
- Artist of the Year: Billie Eilish
- Album of the Year: HIT ME HARD AND SOFT – Billie Eilish
- Song of the Year: “Birds of a Feather” – Billie Eilish
- Favorite Male Pop Artist: Bruno Mars
- Favorite Female Latin Artist: Becky G
- Favorite Latin Song: “Acróstico” – Shakira
- Favorite R&B Song: “Saturn” – SZA
- Favorite Hip-Hop Artist: Eminem
- Favorite Country Female Artist: Beyoncé
- Collaboration of the Year: Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars
- Best Music Video: Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars
- New Artist of the Year: Gracie Abrams
Looking Ahead
In a surprise announcement at the end of the show, Jennifer Lopez revealed her upcoming Las Vegas residency, titled “Up All Night Live In Las Vegas,” which will debut later this year at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The residency is expected to attract fans from around the world and further cement Las Vegas as a premier entertainment destination.
