The nominees for the 2025 American Music Awards have been announced, showcasing a stellar lineup of artists recognized for their exceptional contributions to the music industry. Kendrick Lamar leads with an impressive ten nominations, followed by Post Malone with eight and Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Shaboozey each receiving seven nods. Lamar’s achievements span various categories, including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and more. Meanwhile, Post Malone, celebrated for his Coachella performance, and Billie Eilish, known for her highly anticipated album release and sold-out tour, are also nominated in key categories. Chappell Roan and Shaboozey join them as rising stars in the industry.
This year's AMAs celebrate not only these leading figures but also other notable artists such as Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, Morgan Wallen, Sabrina Carpenter, SZA, and Taylor Swift, who all received six nominations. The awards are entirely fan-voted, based on interactions like streaming, sales, radio airplay, and tour grosses tracked by Billboard and Luminate. Voting is open online until May 15, with some categories extending through the live broadcast. Hosted by Jennifer Lopez, the event will air live from Las Vegas on Memorial Day.
Leading Nominees: Setting the Pace
Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone, and Billie Eilish headline this year’s AMAs with remarkable achievements across multiple categories. Lamar’s influence spans hip-hop and pop culture, highlighted by his Super Bowl performance and chart-topping album GNX. His nominations include Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Favorite Male Hip-Hop Artist. Similarly, Post Malone's versatility shines through his diverse nominations, reflecting both country and mainstream appeal. Billie Eilish’s global impact, marked by her latest album and extensive touring, places her among the top contenders.
Lamar's dominance in the hip-hop genre is undeniable, earning him multiple nods for favorite songs and albums. His presence in categories like Collaboration of the Year underscores his collaborative spirit. Post Malone's recognition extends beyond genre boundaries, acknowledging his cross-over success. Billie Eilish's nominations reflect her evolving artistry and enduring popularity. Each artist contributes uniquely to the musical landscape, making their inclusion in the AMAs a testament to their influence and innovation.
Rising Stars: Making Their Mark
Chappell Roan and Shaboozey represent the new wave of talent shaping contemporary music. Chappell Roan, celebrated for becoming a cultural icon and queer role model, garners attention with seven nominations, including New Artist of the Year and Favorite Female Pop Artist. Her work resonates deeply within the pop community, marking her as a fresh voice with significant impact. Shaboozey, blending rap and country styles, also secures seven nominations, highlighting a breakthrough year that includes Grammy accolades and chart-topping hits.
Chappell Roan's rise is characterized by her ability to connect emotionally with audiences, evident in her nominations for Album of the Year and Social Song of the Year. Her innovative approach to songwriting sets her apart, appealing to fans across demographics. Shaboozey's journey reflects the growing fusion of genres in modern music; his gold-certified album exemplifies the broad appeal of his sound. Both artists embody the spirit of innovation that the AMAs aim to recognize, contributing to a dynamic and inclusive music scene. Their inclusion in the awards signifies the importance of nurturing emerging talent and celebrating diverse voices in the industry.