The 2025 American Music Awards offered a dynamic mix of performances, tributes, and major wins. Held at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas on Memorial Day and broadcast live on CBS and Paramount+, the event highlighted both industry veterans and rising stars in an evening that quickly gained traction across social media.
Billie Eilish led the night with wins in all seven of her nominated categories. She received Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Favorite Pop Album for “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” along with Favorite Touring Artist.
Her song “Birds of a Feather” earned both Song of the Year and Favorite Pop Song. Accepting virtually from her European tour, Eilish thanked fans for their support, marking another high point in her career.
Janet Jackson made a notable return with her first televised performance in seven years and was presented with the ICON Award. Introduced by host Jennifer Lopez, who previously performed as a backup dancer in one of Jackson’s music videos, Jackson performed a medley that included “Someone to Call My Lover” and Mariah Carey’s “Shake It Off,” concluding with “All For You.” In her acceptance speech, Jackson reflected on her musical journey and family legacy.
She’s an ICON, she’s a legend, and she is the moment! 🤩
Congratulations again to @JanetJackson, our #AMAs Icon Award Recipient! pic.twitter.com/RXO5vgKL0L— American Music Awards (@AMAs) May 27, 2025
Jennifer Lopez opened the show with a 23-song medley and drew attention online for a moment during her performance of Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control,” where she kissed three backup dancers. The segment sparked conversation across social media, with opinions ranging from praise to critique.
Jennifer Lopez makes out with her dancers during her opening number at the #AMAs.
— Buzzing Pop (@BuzzingPop) May 27, 2025
“Why is Jennifer Lopez kissing everybody at the #AMAs” someone questioned on X.
While Eilish, Jackson, and Lopez anchored the show’s biggest moments, other artists made their mark. Beyoncé won Favorite Female Country Artist and Favorite Country Album for “Cowboy Carter,” a milestone after prior snubs in the genre. Post Malone took home Favorite Male Country Artist, and Eminem returned to the winner’s circle with two hip-hop honors.
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Gracie Abrams was named New Artist of the Year, while SZA won Favorite Female R&B Artist and Favorite R&B Song for “Saturn.”
Doechii earned Social Song of the Year for “Anxiety.” Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’s “Die With a Smile” won both Favorite Music Video and Collaboration of the Year, with Gaga also winning Favorite Dance/Electronic Artist and Mars taking Favorite Male Pop Artist.
Rod Stewart was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award and performed “Forever Young” as the finale. His surprise reunion on stage with five of his children added a personal touch to the evening.
