Music’s biggest names gathered in Las Vegas on Monday night for the 52nd Annual American Music Awards, hosted by hip-hop pioneer Queen Latifah, who returned to host the event for the first time in over three decades live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
The night belonged to global superstars BTS, who dominated their return to the awards circuit. The K-pop group took home the evening’s highest honor, Artist of the Year, alongside trophies for Song of the Summer with their hit “Swim” and Best Male K-Pop Artist. The group kicked off the festivities with a pre-recorded, high-energy rendition of their track “Hooligan” before making a live appearance to hand out an award to R&B singer SZA.
Sabrina Carpenter also enjoyed a massive evening. She claimed three awards, including the coveted Album of the Year and Best Pop Album for Man’s Best Friend, as well as Best Female Pop Artist. Meanwhile, despite entering the night with a leading eight nominations, Taylor Swift surprisingly went home empty-handed.
A wave of fresh talent also shook up the ceremony. Girl group KATSEYE earned the New Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Pop Artist, and Best Music Video for “Gnarly.” Sombr also took home three trophies in the rock and alternative categories, while the trio of EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI earned major wins—including Song of the Year—for their chart-topping track “Golden.”
Other major genre awards saw Cardi B rule the hip-hop field with three wins, Bruno Mars sweep the R&B brackets, and Ella Langley secure Best Female Country Artist. Veteran rocker Billy Idol was also celebrated with a Lifetime Achievement Award to honor his decades-long legacy.
For the full list of winners, head to the AMAs website HERE.
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