After a three-year hiatus, the American Music Awards are making a massive comeback in 2025--this time with a new home, fresh energy, and an all-star lineup ready to deliver unforgettable moments.
Once sidelined due to a lapse in its broadcasting deal with ABC, the AMAs return this year under the CBS banner, bringing the prestigious celebration of global music excellence back into the spotlight. And for the first time in its decades-long history, the event will not be held in the Los Angeles area, breaking with tradition to mark a bold new chapter.
At the helm of the 2025 show is none other than global superstar Jennifer Lopez, who returns as host for the second time. Fans may her show-stopping turn in 2015, when she kicked off the ceremony with her hit "Waiting for Tonight" and a sizzling dance medley. Now, J.Lo is back to lead what promises to be one of the biggest musical nights of the year.
Two legends receive just honors
But the real buzz? Two legendary icons will take center stage. Janet Jackson will receive the coveted Icon Award and perform on television for the first time since 2018. With 11 AMA trophies already to her name, Jackson's return is being hailed as one of the most anticipated moments of the night.
Not to be outdone, Rod Stewart will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his nearly 60-year career that has left an indelible mark on the music world. Stewart will also perform live, making his first appearance on the AMAs stage since 2004.
The AMAs looking to the future
The 2025 ceremony isn't just a return--it's a reinvention. With CBS now airing the show under a multi-year agreement (which also includes the Golden Globes), and a venue shift outside of L.A., the AMAs are setting the stage for a refreshed and revitalized era.
Bigger, bolder, and packed with history-making moments, this year's American Music Awards is shaping up to be the must-watch event of the music calendar.
Rod Stewart, at 80 years old, receives the Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating six decades of musical impact. Moved, he is cheered by an audience that recognizes the legacy of a true legend
Billie Eilish is the winner!
And the artist of the year is chosen from among:
Ariana Grande
Billie Eilish
Chappell Roan
Kendrick Lamar
Morgan Wallen
Post Malone
Sabrina Carpenter
SZA
Taylor Swift
Zach Bryan
Dan + Shay is the winner!!!
The next award to be presented is: Favorite Country Duo or Group:
Dan + Shay
Old Dominion
Parmalee
The Red Clay Strays
Zac Brown Band
The Collaboration of the Year award goes to Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga, an explosive duo who won over audiences with their chemistry and a song that became an anthem.
The legend, Eminem takes the award
Next up is the award for Favorite Male Hip-Hop Artist:
Drake
Eminem
Future
Kendrick Lamar
Tyler, The Creator
Renee Rapp lights up the stage
Janet Jackson steals the show with her incredible performance.
SZA is the winner and already has two awards
It's time to meet this year's female artists in the R&B genre:
Kehlani
Muni Long
Summer Walker
SZA
Tyla
Gracie Abrams wins the award!
These are the nominees for the New Artist of the Year award:
Benson Boone
Chappell Roan
Gracie Abrams
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Tommy Richman
Becky G takes home the prize!
The next award is: FAVORITE LATINA FEMALE ARTIST
Becky G
Karol G
Natti Natasha
Shakira
Young Miko
Favorite R&B Song
The Favorite R&B Song goes to SZA with "Saturn."
Jennifer Lopez officially opens the American Music Awards
The event kicks off
The 2025 American Music Awards are underway, and everything is ready to celebrate the best in the industry with unforgettable performances, surprises, and lots of awards. Let the show begin!
Machine Gun Kelly steals the show with his unique outfit.
The queen of country has arrived: Lainey Wilson dazzles at the American Music Awards with her unmistakable style and charisma.
Legend Sir Rod Stewart arriving at the American Music Awards to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Becky G and Manuel Turizo making their grand entrance to the Fontainebleau Las Vegas.
Becky G and Manuel Turizo will perform "Qué Haces" on the AMAs stage.
Kehlani is nominated to Favorite Female R&B Artist
Alix Earle will present one of the awards tonight.
Gloria Estefan arrived at the AMAs oozing style and nostalgia.
Kendrick Lamar Dominates AMA Nominations! Rap Superstar Leads the Pack with 10 Nods!
The stage is set for a star-studded night at the 2025 American Music Awards, and leading the charge is none other than Kendrick Lamar, who has snagged an impressive 10 nominations, solidifying his status as one of music's most influential figures.
The 37-year-old rapper is up for major honors including Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Favorite Music Video. Following closely behind Lamar is Post Malone with a strong showing of eight nominations.
Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Shaboozey are also making significant waves, each earning seven nods, proving their breakout power in the music scene.
New talents take the stage by storm
This year's AMAs, taking place at the luxurious Fontainebleau Las Vegas, also welcomes a fresh crop of talent with first-time nominees such as Benson Boone, Doechii, Gracie Abrams, Jelly Roll, Lola Young, The Marías, ROSÉ, Teddy Swims, Tommy Richman, Tyla, Sabrina Carpenter, and Zach Bryan all making their debut on the nomination list.
Beyond the competitive categories, the AMAs promise a night packed with electrifying performances. Music legends like Gloria Estefan, 67, and Gwen Stefani, 55, are set to deliver career-spanning medleys, while rising stars Benson Boone, 22, and Reneé Rapp, 25, are expected to debut new music.
Country favorites Blake Shelton, 48, will be promoting his new album, "For Recreational Use Only," and Lainey Wilson, 33, will take the stage fresh off her "Whirlwind Tour." International collaborations are also on the menu, with Becky G and Manuel Turizo set to unveil their new single, "Que Haces," and Alex Warren making his award show performance debut.
The AMAs commemorate Memorial Day
In a poignant tribute on Memorial Day, the AMAs are partnering with the Easy Day Foundation, a Las Vegas-based non-profit dedicated to helping veterans transition to civilian life.
The ceremony will feature special in-show moments to celebrate veterans and raise funds for various national and local organizations. This includes two unique performances and the presentation of a special award honoring a marquee talent who uses their platform to make meaningful contributions to the Veteran community.
It's shaping up to be an unforgettable night of music, celebration, and heartfelt recognition.
Rod Stewart sends the entire audience home with an incredible performance