As expected, the 51st Annual American Music Awards was full of glitz, glamor, riveting performances, and other pleasant surprises. Airing live from the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas, this year’s ceremony was definitely one to be remembered. Taking place on Memorial Day, the ceremony paid homage to U.S. soldiers and veterans. This year’s show features a partnership between CBS and the Easy Day Foundation. Based in Las Vegas, this organization assists veterans with significant needs such as family support services, mental health care, and job training. One of many other reasons for the show’s splendor was none other than Kendrick Lamar.
Kendrick Lamar Does It Again!
Although he was not present to accept, the Compton, California native added to his lengthy list of accolades by winning Favorite Hip Hop Song for his Drake diss track, “Not Like Us”. Produced by DJ Mustard, the number-one hit received three of his ten nominations in the ceremony. Currently on his Grand National Tour which wraps in August, Kendrick’s star just keeps rising.
Other memorable moments included prestigious awards won by music legends Janet Jackson and Rod Stewart. Jackson became the recipient of the Icon Award, while Stewart became the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Jackson kept the crowd filled with delight, as she performed her hits “Someone To Call My Lover” and “All For You“. Stewart kept the momentum going as he closed the show with his 1988 hit, “Forever Young”
Since its debut on February 19, 1974, the American Music Awards has always been one of the world’s most anticipated award shows. After this year’s festivities, one can’t help but wonder what’s in store for next year!
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