The 51st American Music Awards brought the glamour back to Las Vegas on May 26, 2025, with high-wattage performances, legendary tributes, and a heartfelt salute to U.S. veterans.
The glittering ceremony unfolded at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, with superstar Jennifer Lopez returning as host a decade after her last stint. Her grand reentry marked not just a nostalgic moment but a show of resilience, as she delivered a dynamic performance despite a minor rehearsal injury.
This year’s AMAs blended celebration and commemoration, honoring both musical excellence and the service of U.S. military veterans through a new partnership with the Easy Day Foundation. For the first time, the show introduced the Veterans Voice Award, spotlighting artists who champion military communities.
A Triumphant Return to the Stage
The 2025 AMAs marked a significant revival after a two-year hiatus, returning stronger and more purposeful than ever. Leading the night was Kendrick Lamar with a commanding ten nominations, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for GNX. Hot on his heels was Post Malone, scoring eight nods.
The awards ceremony unfolded with style and emotion, bolstered by Jennifer Lopez’s effortless charisma and showmanship. Kicking off the evening with an electrifying medley, Lopez reaffirmed her place as one of entertainment’s premier multi-hyphenates.
Janet Jackson, a music icon in her own right, stole the spotlight with her first televised performance since 2018. Accepting the coveted ICON Award, Jackson delivered a heartfelt speech followed by a stunning medley of her greatest hits, showcasing why her influence endures across generations.
Celebrating Service: Veterans in the Spotlight
In a stirring segment that highlighted the theme of honor and gratitude, country star Zac Brown received the inaugural Veterans Voice Award. Recognized for his extensive work with military charities and his outspoken support for veterans, Brown’s moment was met with a standing ovation.
The tribute segment also included messages from veterans, service members, and families, woven together with live performances. This addition underscored the AMA’s commitment to recognizing courage and community, adding emotional depth to an already memorable night.
Unforgettable Performances
The stage was set ablaze with a series of performances that spanned genres and generations:
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Blake Shelton premiered a new track from his latest album For Recreational Use Only, blending his signature country charm with arena-ready sound.
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Gwen Stefani delivered a nostalgic celebration of the 20th anniversary of Love.Angel.Music.Baby., delighting longtime fans.
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Gloria Estefan, returning to the AMAs after over three decades, honored her five-decade career with a rousing performance that had the audience on their feet.
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Rising stars Lainey Wilson, Benson Boone, and Renée Rapp electrified the stage, highlighting the genre diversity and youthful energy of today’s music scene.
Rod Stewart capped the evening with a tribute performance following his Lifetime Achievement Award honor. His medley of timeless hits served as a fitting close to a night devoted to legends and legacies.
A Cross-Generational Celebration
Beyond the awards and performances, the 2025 AMAs served as a cultural moment—an intersection of past and present. The event’s mix of classic icons and fresh talent demonstrated the evolving yet enduring power of music to connect audiences of all ages.
With CBS broadcasting live and streaming available on Paramount+, the show reached millions of households nationwide, reinforcing its place as a premier entertainment fixture.
Looking Ahead
As the curtain closed on the 51st American Music Awards, the night left a resonant message: music not only entertains, but also uplifts, unites, and honors. Whether through Janet Jackson’s triumphant return, Rod Stewart’s legacy tribute, or the military honors now woven into its fabric, the AMAs of 2025 proved to be a show with heart and purpose.
By Alan Fink, Senior Correspondent