The 2025 American Music Awards are set to light up Las Vegas this Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, with a dazzling lineup of performers, a new host, and a fresh venue. After a two-year hiatus, the AMAs return with a bang, hosted by the iconic Jennifer Lopez at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. This 51st edition promises unforgettable performances, heartfelt tributes, and a celebration of music’s biggest names, all while honoring U.S. troops and veterans. With fan-voted winners and a mix of new and legendary artists, the event is poised to be a historic night in music.
Why the 2025 American Music Awards Are a Must-Watch
This year’s AMAs mark a significant shift. For the first time, the ceremony moves to Las Vegas, leaving its traditional Los Angeles home. The show airs live on CBS at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, a change from its previous ABC broadcasts, and streams on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME. Jennifer Lopez, who last hosted in 2015, returns to the stage as both host and performer, bringing her signature energy. She’s been rehearsing for weeks, promising a high-octane performance to kick off the night. The event also introduces three new categories—Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Social Song of the Year—adding excitement for fans voting on their favorites.
- Date and Time: Monday, May 26, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
- Location: Fontainebleau Las Vegas
- Broadcast: Live on CBS, streaming on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME
- Host: Jennifer Lopez
Top Nominees and Performers to Watch
Kendrick Lamar leads the 2025 American Music Awards with 10 nominations, followed by Post Malone with eight, and Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Shaboozey with seven each. Taylor Swift, the all-time AMA leader with 40 wins, could add up to six more, potentially breaking records. First-time nominees like Sabrina Carpenter, Zach Bryan, and Teddy Swims bring fresh talent to the mix. Performers include Janet Jackson, who’ll receive the Icon Award and deliver her first TV performance in seven years, and Rod Stewart, honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Other acts like Benson Boone, Gloria Estefan, Gwen Stefani, Lainey Wilson, and Reneé Rapp will take the stage, alongside surprises like Becky G and Manuel Turizo debuting their merengue-pop hit “Que Haces.”
| Performer | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Janet Jackson | Icon Award, first TV performance since 2018 |
| Rod Stewart | Lifetime Achievement Award, first AMA show in 20 years |
| Jennifer Lopez | Host and performer, opening the show |
| Benson Boone | Performs “Mystical Magical” from new album |
| Lainey Wilson | Duet with Jelly Roll, fresh off ACM wins |
Honoring Legends and New Talent
The 2025 American Music Awards blend reverence for music legends with a spotlight on rising stars. Janet Jackson’s Icon Award celebrates her global influence, with Lopez praising her as a personal inspiration. Rod Stewart’s performance, his first at the AMAs in over two decades, marks a milestone for the rock legend. Meanwhile, newcomers like Alex Warren, whose ballad “Ordinary” hit No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, make their awards show debut. The show’s fan-voted nature, based on Billboard chart data like streaming and sales from March 2024 to March 2025, ensures it reflects what listeners love most.
How to Catch the Action
Fans have multiple ways to experience the 2025 American Music Awards. Tune into CBS for the live broadcast, or stream it on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME. New subscribers can snag a seven-day free trial to watch live or catch the on-demand replay with a basic Paramount+ plan. For cord-cutters, services like FuboTV, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV offer free trials to access CBS. Want to be there in person? Last-minute tickets are available on Ticketmaster, StubHub, or Vivid Seats. The show also features live audio description on CBS’s Secondary Audio Programming for blind and low-vision viewers, making it more accessible than ever.
A Night of Tributes and Surprises
This year’s AMAs coincide with Memorial Day, adding a special tribute to U.S. troops and veterans through performances and stories. In partnership with the Easy Day Foundation, the show will honor a marquee talent supporting the veteran community. With 16 confirmed performances, including a pre-recorded set by Playboi Carti and Mike Dean, the night promises surprises. Presenters like Alix Earle, Cara Delevingne, Ciara, and Tiffany Haddish add star power, while the fan-voted awards keep the energy high as winners are revealed live.
Don’t Miss the 2025 American Music Awards
The 2025 American Music Awards are shaping up to be a historic celebration of music, from chart-topping hits to iconic legacies. Whether you’re cheering for Kendrick Lamar’s potential sweep, Taylor Swift’s record-breaking wins, or Janet Jackson’s emotional return, this is one night you won’t want to miss. Grab your popcorn, vote for your favorites, and get ready for a show that’s equal parts nostalgia and new energy. Tune in live or stream it later—either way, you’re in for a treat.
Don’t miss the 2025 American Music Awards on May 26! Watch live on CBS or stream on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME. Grab tickets or vote for your favorite artists now at the official AMAs website