Billie Eilish emerged as the top winner at the American Music Awards (AMAs) on Monday, securing the prestigious Artist of the Year title at a star-studded ceremony in Las Vegas.
The 23-year-old singer, known for her ethereal voice and genre-defying music, won all seven categories in which she was nominated, including Album of the Year for her 2024 release Hit Me Hard and Soft and Favourite Touring Artist. Eilish, currently touring Europe, addressed the audience via video message.
“This is so crazy. I feel speechless,” she said. “I wish I could be there tonight.”
She beat a competitive field including Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, and Morgan Wallen, all of whom were notably absent from the ceremony held at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas hotel.
Gracie Abrams, whose single That’s So True found viral success, was named New Artist of the Year. Like Eilish, Abrams accepted her award remotely and expressed gratitude to her fans. “They have reminded me of the light that exists out there,” she said.
Among other notable wins, SZA claimed two major R&B awards—Favourite Female R&B Artist and Favourite R&B Song for Saturn. Becky G won Favourite Female Latin Artist.
Beyoncé, who was also not in attendance, made history by winning Favourite Female Country Artist and Favourite Country Album for her crossover project Cowboy Carter. These mark her first AMA wins in the country music categories. Post Malone was named Favourite Male Country Artist.
Kendrick Lamar, who led the nominations with 10 nods, took home a single award—Favourite Hip-Hop Song for Not Like Us.
The ceremony opened with host Jennifer Lopez delivering a dynamic six-minute performance medley featuring 23 hits by various nominees. The set included Billie Eilish’s Birds of a Feather, Sabrina Carpenter’s Espresso, and Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ’Em.
The evening also celebrated musical legends. Janet Jackson received the Icon Award, recognising her global influence. “I don’t consider myself an icon,” Jackson told the audience. “The one thing that I hope for is that I’m an inspiration for others to follow their dreams and succeed.”
Veteran British singer Rod Stewart was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Performing his timeless classic Forever Young, Stewart, now 80, reflected on his early ambitions. “That’s all I wanted to do,” he said. “I didn’t want to be rich or famous—I had this burning ambition to sing.”
The AMAs, which are determined by fan votes, were broadcast live on CBS and streamed globally, showcasing a night that blended chart-topping newcomers with industry veterans.
