The 52nd version of the American Music Awards (AMAs) was held on 25th May 2026, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Lafifa hosted the show, 31 years after she first co-hosted the ceremony in 1995. The night turned out to be a big win for newcomers and Asians alike. While some old contenders held their position, there were a lot of new names that sprang up. Here is a complete breakdown of the winners.
Asians win big at the AMAs 2026
With BTS’s return, Katseye, Twice, and HUNTR/X’s numerous nominations, the night glimmered for Asians and K-pop music. BTS‘ hiatus did not stop them from being the dominant group in the K-pop music industry. They won Artist of the Year, Song of the Summer, and Best Male K-Pop Artist. It testifies to their influence even after a significant gap in their career.
The girl band Katseye was only second to BTS in dominating the stage. They made records by winning the New Artist of the Year, Best Music Video, and Breakthrough Pop Artist categories. The Asian influence was furthered by the singing voices of HUNTR/X, who won the awards for Biggest Vocal Performance, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Song.
Another girl group, Twice, took home their first-ever AMAs for Best Female K-pop Artist. This marked a major milestone for the music industry, as they were the first K-pop girl group to win an award in this category. Thus, Asian subcurrents in American mainstream music take a big leap.
Newcomer Magic
Newcomers performed exceptionally well at the awards night. SOMBR won 3 awards, including Best Rock or Alternative Album for I Barely Know Her. Additionally, he dons the title of Best Rock or Alternative Song for “Back to Friends” and Breakthrough Rock or Alternative Artist as well.
Sam Barber winning Breakthrough Country Artist, Monaleo bagging Breakthrough Hip Hop Artist, Leon Thomas taking home Best Breakthrough R&B Artist, and Pink Pantheress winning Best Collaboration of the Year guarantees the influence of new music.
Reigning Old Horses
Although it was a disappointing night for Taylor Swift with eight nominations, other senior artists have still held on to their positions.
Shakira wins the Tour of the Year, Black Eyed Peas wins the Best Throwback Song, and Justin Bieber bags the Best Male Pop Artist. Additionally, Kendrick Lamar and Cardi B Shine in the best hip hop artists category. Bruno Mars went big as the dominant artist in the R&B category. Bad Bunny and Shakira dominate the Latin music scene with newer artists like Fuerza Regida, Capo, and Karol G.
Sabrina Carpenter also reigns in specific categories like Album of the Year (Man’s Best Friend), Best Female Pop Artist, and Tyla shines through The Social Song of the Year for “Chanel”.
Final Words – Are the AMAs changing?
Broadcast on CBCS on Streamrun, Paramount+, the show welcomed performances from Katseye, 21 Pilots, and Teddy Swim. BTS performed with a pre-recorded version of Hooligan. SOMBR, the Pussycat Dolls, and Keith Urban also found spots. Thus, this year’s AMAs were dominated by Asian music and newcomers, and it is a positive sign towards a slight shift in what is considered mainstream American music.
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