The 2026 American Music Awards took place in Las Vegas on Memorial Day, showcasing top performers such as BTS, Sombr, Karol G, and KATSEYE.
BTS Steals the Show
K-pop sensation BTS made a triumphant return to the awards stage, winning Song of the Summer, Artist of the Year, and Best Male K-pop Artist. Their pre-taped performance of “Hooligan” set the tone for the night. This marked their first appearance at an award show in four years, coinciding with their stop in Las Vegas for the Arirang World Tour.
Fans, known as ARMY, were ecstatic, filling the venue with cheers whenever BTS was mentioned. Although their performance was pre-recorded, the excitement was palpable in the arena, especially when BTS presented the Female R&B Artist of the Year award to SZA.
Sombr and KATSEYE Shine
Sombr also had a notable night, taking home three awards, including two televised ones, while performing his hit single “Homewrecker.” Girl group KATSEYE, currently a five-member group with Manon on hiatus, won three awards, including New Artist of the Year. Their performance of the catchy single “Pinky Up” was a highlight.
A Star-Studded Lineup
Other performances included those by Karol G, Teyana Taylor, Hootie and the Blowfish, Keith Urban, Maluma, Green, Swims, New Kids on the Block, The Pussycat Dolls, and Twenty One Pilots. Presenters for the night ranged from Alysa Liu to John Legend and Mariah the Scientist.
Behind the Scenes Interactions
Host Queen Latifah engaged with fans directly from the audience, capturing the spirit of the fan-voted awards. Keith Urban was also seen mingling with fans post-performance, demonstrating the show's audience-friendly format.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/music/music-news/inside-2026-american-music-awards-moments-camera-missed-1236606223/
