The singer of “Birds of a Feather,” Billie Eilish, achieved the highest accolade on Monday at the American Music Awards, securing the title of artist of the year in Las Vegas during a red-carpet event that recognized winners chosen by fan votes.
Pop artist Eilish triumphed over Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar, Morgan Wallen, and other contenders to claim the artist award. She emerged victorious in all seven categories for which she was nominated, including album of the year and favorite touring artist.
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“This is so crazy. I feel speechless,” Eilish expressed in a video message from Europe, where she is currently on tour. “I wish I could be there tonight.”
At the age of 23, Eilish released her third studio album, titled “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” in May 2024.
Gracie Abrams, the winner of new artist of the year and singer of “That’s So True,” also sent a video message to accept her award. She expressed gratitude to her fans, stating, “I have been fortunate enough to learn from them.”
“They have reminded me of the light that exists out there,” Abrams remarked.
SZA received AMA honors for female R&B artist and for R&B song for “Saturn.” Becky G was recognized as the favorite female Latin artist.
Numerous prominent figures on the nominees’ list were absent from the event, which was broadcast live on CBS.
One notable absentee was Beyonce, who won favorite female country artist and favorite country album for “Cowboy Carter,” marking her first AMA victories in country categories. Post Malone was awarded favorite male country artist.
Other notable no-shows included Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar, who entered the ceremony with a leading 10 nominations. He secured one award, favorite hip-hop song, for “Not Like Us.”
The event commenced with host Jennifer Lopez performing a six-minute medley of 23 hits by the nominees. The medley featured Eilish’s “Birds of a Feather,” Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso,” and Beyonce’s “Texas Hold ‘Em.”
Janet Jackson was honored with the Icon award, recognizing artists with a significant global impact.
“I do not view myself as an icon,” Jackson stated while on stage. “My primary hope is to serve as an inspiration for others to pursue their dreams and achieve success.”
Eighty-year-old Rod Stewart was awarded a lifetime achievement honor and performed his popular song “Forever Young,” which debuted in 1984.
Stewart remarked that at the beginning of his career, “I possessed a fervent desire to sing.”
“That was my sole aspiration. I had no desire for wealth or fame,” he added.
