AMAs put spotlight on coming together
The 2017 American Music Awards marked a night of unison, positive vibes and American pride, as musicians spoke about coming together in a year dominated by natural disasters, violence and divisive politics.
Kelly Clarkson and Pink kicked off the three-hour show Sunday with a performance honoring those affected by tragic events of the year, from hurricanes to hate crimes. First responders stood behind actor Jamie Foxx, who gave a speech before Pink and Clarkson sang R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts.”
While Lady Gaga performed “The Cure,” a song about healing, she told the audience: “Who’s gonna be there? We got to be there for each other, America. Hands up!” Gaga sang from her concert in Washington, D.C. Later in the show she was named favorite female pop/rock artist.
Bruno Mars was also not in attendance at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Mars, who is on tour in South America and appeared via video, picked up seven awards, including artist of the year.
Iconic entertainer Diana Ross was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The 73-year-old ran through well-known songs onstage including “I’m Coming Out” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
Like Mars, Keith Urban won multiple awards, including favorite country album, country male artist and country song.
Shawn Mendes won favorite adult contemporary artist, beating Mars and Ed Sheeran.
Former One Direction singer Niall Horan won new artist of the year; the Chainsmokers were named favorite electronic dance artist; and Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber won collaboration of the year for the hit song “Despacito.” DJ Khaled won favorite rap/hip-hop song for “I’m the One.”