As the clock ticks down to tonight’s American Music Awards, the buzz is electric. Hosted by Jennifer Lopez, the 51st annual ceremony kicks off on May 26, 2025, at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, airing live on CBS and Paramount+ at 8 p.m. ET. After a two-year hiatus, this fan-voted spectacle returns with a star-studded lineup, honoring icons like Janet Jackson and Rod Stewart while showcasing performances from rising stars like Benson Boone. Kendrick Lamar leads with 10 nominations, setting the stage for a fierce competition. Here’s everything you need to know about the American Music Awards 2025, from performers to honorees and what fans are buzzing about.
Need to Know: American Music Awards 2025
- Date and Venue: The 51st American Music Awards air live on May 26, 2025, from Fontainebleau Las Vegas on CBS and Paramount+.
- Host and Performers: Jennifer Lopez hosts and performs, joined by Janet Jackson, Rod Stewart, Gwen Stefani, and more.
- Top Nominees: Kendrick Lamar leads with 10 nominations, followed by Post Malone with eight, and Taylor Swift with multiple nods.
A Star-Studded Return for the American Music Awards
The American Music Awards have always been about the fans, and this year’s event doubles down on that legacy. Unlike the Grammys, where industry insiders cast votes, the AMAs let the public decide the winners based on streaming, sales, airplay, and tour data tracked by Billboard and Luminate. After skipping 2023 and 2024, the show’s return feels like a homecoming. The Memorial Day timing adds a patriotic twist, with tributes planned for U.S. troops and veterans through heartfelt performances.
Jennifer Lopez, who last hosted in 2015, steps back into the spotlight tonight. She’s been rehearsing for weeks, promising a high-energy performance that blends her signature dance moves with new music. Despite a facial injury during rehearsals that required stitches, Lopez is ready to shine, sharing her recovery journey on social media. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and fans are eager to see how she’ll elevate the night.
Honoring Icons: Janet Jackson and Rod Stewart
Two legends will take center stage at the American Music Awards 2025, earning prestigious honors. Janet Jackson, an 11-time AMA winner, receives the ICON Award for her global influence. This marks her first televised performance in seven years, following a residency at Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas. At 59, Jackson’s impact remains undeniable, with hits like “Rhythm Nation” and “All for You” shaping pop and R&B. Expect a performance that celebrates her five-decade career.
Rod Stewart, 80, will accept the Lifetime Achievement Award and perform for the first time at the AMAs since 2004. Known for classics like “Maggie May” and “Do Ya Think I’m Sexy,” Stewart’s gravelly voice and charisma promise a nostalgic highlight. His set will include a classic hit, likely from his Grammy-winning Stardust album. These tributes underscore the AMAs’ commitment to celebrating music’s past and present.
The Performers Lighting Up the Stage
The American Music Awards 2025 boast a diverse lineup. Gwen Stefani, 55, will perform a medley marking the 20th anniversary of her debut solo album, Love.Angel.Music.Baby., featuring “Hollaback Girl,” alongside a track from her latest release, Bouquet. Country star Lainey Wilson, fresh off four Academy of Country Music Awards wins, brings her whirlwind energy. Benson Boone, a first-time nominee, will debut his single “Mystical Magical” from his upcoming album American Heart, set for release on June 20.
Other performers include Blake Shelton, Gloria Estefan, Reneé Rapp, Alex Warren, Becky G, and Manuel Turizo. Estefan, 67, returns to the AMA stage after over 30 years, celebrating five decades in music. This mix of veterans and newcomers ensures something for every fan, from pop to country to Latin.
| Performer | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Jennifer Lopez | Hosts and performs, fresh off rehearsal injury |
| Janet Jackson | ICON Award recipient, first TV performance since 2018 |
| Rod Stewart | Lifetime Achievement Award, first AMA show in 21 years |
| Gwen Stefani | Celebrates 20 years of Love.Angel.Music.Baby. |
| Benson Boone | Debuts “Mystical Magical” from American Heart |
The Nominees: Kendrick Lamar Leads the Pack
Kendrick Lamar dominates the American Music Awards 2025 with 10 nominations, fueled by his Grammy-winning track “Not Like Us.” He’s up for Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Song of the Year, competing against heavyweights like Post Malone (eight nominations), Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, SZA, and Sabrina Carpenter. Malone’s country pivot with F-1 Trillion earned him nods for Favorite Male Country Artist and Favorite Country Album. Swift, with a record-breaking 40 AMA wins, remains a fan favorite, and speculation is rife about a possible Reputation (Taylor’s Version) announcement tonight.
Newcomers like Chappell Roan and Benson Boone add fresh energy to the nominee list. Fans voted using unique hashtags on the AMAs’ website and social media, with voting for most categories closing on May 15. However, Collaboration of the Year and Social Song of the Year votes remain open until tonight, amplifying the fan-driven excitement.
Presenters and Special Moments
The American Music Awards 2025 will feature a dazzling array of presenters, including Cara Delevingne, Shaboozey (nominated for seven awards), and Dylan Efron from The Traitors. Others like Alix Earle, Ciara, Dan + Shay, Jordan Chiles, Kai Cenat, Megan Moroney, Nikki Glaser, Tiffany Haddish, and Wayne Brady will keep the energy high. These stars will hand out awards and add their own flair to the night, making every moment Instagram-worthy.
The show’s Memorial Day setting inspires a tribute to U.S. troops and veterans, woven into the performances and speeches. Expect emotional highs, from Jackson’s ICON Award acceptance to Lopez’s reflections on her career, including her early days as a dancer for Jackson. These personal touches make the AMAs more than just an awards show—they’re a celebration of music’s power to connect.
Fashion and Fan Buzz
The American Music Awards red carpet is always a spectacle, and 2025 is no exception. Past AMAs have seen bold fashion choices, from Lady Gaga’s 2013 horse-drawn entrance to iconic looks by Taylor Swift and Rihanna. This year, anticipation builds for Lopez’s hosting ensemble and Jackson’s return to the spotlight. Social media is abuzz with predictions, with fans speculating about Swift’s potential appearance and whether she’ll drop Reputation (Taylor’s Version) news.
Posts on X reflect the excitement, with fans sharing throwbacks to past AMAs and hyping tonight’s performers. The hashtag #AMAs is trending, driven by clips of Lopez’s rehearsals and Jackson’s ICON Award announcement. The fan-voted nature of the awards keeps social media at the heart of the event, with last-minute votes still pouring in.
Why the AMAs Matter in 2025
The American Music Awards stand out for their fan-driven spirit. Unlike other awards, the AMAs reflect what listeners stream, buy, and love. This year’s return after a two-year break feels like a reset, blending nostalgia with new talent. The tributes to Jackson and Stewart highlight music’s timeless impact, while artists like Boone and Rapp signal its future. Lopez’s hosting, paired with her performance, ties it all together, proving she’s still a force in entertainment.
Tonight’s ceremony at Fontainebleau Las Vegas will blend glamour, heart, and raw talent. Whether you’re rooting for Kendrick Lamar’s sweep, Taylor Swift’s next move, or Janet Jackson’s iconic moment, the AMAs promise a night to remember. Tune in to see who takes home the trophies and what surprises await.
Don’t miss the American Music Awards 2025! Watch live on CBS or stream on Paramount+ at 8 p.m. ET tonight, May 26. Share your favorite moments using #AMAs and join the fan conversation online!