This year's American Music Awards (AMA) was a vibrant celebration of music, featuring performances from renowned artists and emerging talents alike. Among the highlights, Beyoncé received three nominations for her 2024 country album, 'Cowboy Carter.' The event featured captivating performances by SZA, Gracie Abrams, Eminem, and Billie Eilish, who won in all seven categories she was nominated in. Other winners included Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, Lady Gaga, and Post Malone. The fan-voted event also honored legends such as Gloria Estefan and Rod Stewart, showcasing a blend of new and enduring talent.
Jennifer Lopez delivered an electrifying opening performance that set the tone for the evening. Dressed in a sparkly bodysuit, she danced through a medley of hits, demonstrating her incredible stage presence and versatility. Benson Boone provided another memorable moment with his energetic performance of "Mystical Magical," engaging the audience with his charismatic style. Janet Jackson received the Icon Award and performed for the first time on TV in seven years, expressing gratitude to her fans and God. Additionally, the AMAs recognized military members on Memorial Day, with Zac Brown and other artists paying tribute to their service.
Iconic Performances at the AMAs
The 2025 AMAs showcased iconic performances that captivated audiences worldwide. Jennifer Lopez opened the show with a high-energy medley of songs, blending acrobatics and powerful vocals. Her performance highlighted not only her musical talent but also her enduring appeal as a performer. Lopez’s ability to seamlessly transition between genres and styles demonstrated her versatility and continued relevance in the music industry. Her interactions with dancers added an element of surprise and excitement, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
Lopez's performance began with "Dance Again," where she utilized innovative technology like virtual reality to enhance her stage presence. She then moved into a series of hits, including "Good Luck, Babe!" and "Birds of a Feather," each showcasing her unique flair and charisma. Her rendition of Benson Boone's "Beautiful Things" featured intimate moments with dancers, adding a personal touch to the performance. Lopez concluded with a nod to her early career, performing hip-hop moves that reminded everyone of her Fly Girl roots. This segment underlined her fearless approach to reinvention and adaptability in the ever-evolving world of entertainment.
Honoring Legends and Military Heroes
The AMAs celebrated legendary figures in the music industry, recognizing their contributions and influence. Janet Jackson received the Icon Award, delivering a heartfelt speech acknowledging her journey and thanking her supporters. Her performance of "Someone to Call My Lover" and "All For You" highlighted her timeless appeal and unmatched stage presence. Jackson expressed humility about being called an icon, attributing her success to hard work and dedication. Her message encouraged others to pursue their dreams relentlessly, emphasizing the importance of faith and perseverance.
Rod Stewart also received a Lifetime Achievement Award, introduced by his family, which visibly moved him. His performance of "Forever Young" closed the show with a lively rendition accompanied by bagpipes, showcasing his enduring charm and musical prowess. In addition to honoring musicians, the AMAs paid tribute to military members on Memorial Day. Zac Brown honored veterans through the Easy Day Foundation, while Ciara and Dan + Shay acknowledged the troops during their acceptance speeches. These moments reinforced the connection between music and community, celebrating both artistic achievements and acts of service. Gloria Estefan further highlighted this unity by dedicating part of her performance to service members globally.