Star-Studded Night: Inside the 2026 American Music Awards

Welcome to the 2026 American Music Awards

The 2026 American Music Awards, a celebration of the year's biggest hits and fan-favorite artists, airs tonight, May 25, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. This exciting event is broadcast on CBS television stations and streamed online via Paramount+. The AMAs boast their status as the world's largest fan-voted awards show, giving the audience a vital role in shaping the night's outcomes.

As we dive into another spectacular evening, the lineup includes performances from some of music's biggest names, showcasing a mosaic of talent that spans genres and generations.

Performance Highlights

This year's lineup is a mixture of iconic veterans and promising newcomers. Notable artists like Billy Idol, Keith Urban, and Teyana Taylor are set to grace the stage with performances designed to captivate audiences around the world.

"The American Music Awards is where the fans get to celebrate the music they love," says host Queen Latifah, marking her return after two decades. "It's a reminder of our shared experiences through music."

Here are a few highlighted performances you won't want to miss:

• Billy Idol: Honored with a lifetime achievement award, Idol will perform a medley featuring classics like "Dancing With Myself" and "Rebel Yell."
• Keith Urban: Expect a sneak peek of his upcoming yacht rock album, "Flow State," along with crowd favorites.
• Teyana Taylor: She will return to the AMAs stage with a medley that highlights her evolution as an artist.

Noteworthy Nominations

In a year bubbling with talent, Taylor Swift leads the nominations with eight nods! Her latest album, "The Life of a Showgirl," is up for multiple categories, including:

• Album of the Year
• Best Pop Album
• Artist of the Year

Swift, known for her unabashed creativity, continues to redefine what it means to be a modern artist. With a remarkable 40 AMAs to her name already, she stands as a pillar in the music industry.

Who's Who in the Nomination Race?

Other artists to watch include:

• Morgan Wallen
• Olivia Dean
• Sabrina Carpenter
• Sombr

Each with seven nominations, they are not far behind Swift and show vast potential to steal the spotlight.

A Night of Surprises

The performances will start with a bang, featuring not only pop icons, but also legacy acts that have shaped the music industry. Hootie and the Blowfish and The Pussycat Dolls are among the groups taking the stage, promising to bring nostalgia and excitement alike.

Don't forget the much-anticipated return of K-pop sensation, BTS, making their comeback at the AMAs following a nearly four-year hiatus. This multi-award-winning group is set to perform as they head out on a world tour, making it a can't-miss moment of the evening.

How to Join the Party

If you're eager to soak in all the performances and fan energy, note these details:

• When: Monday, May 25, 2026
• Time: 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
• Where: MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas
• How to Watch: Live on CBS or via Paramount+

Join the Celebration!

This year's AMAs continue a tradition of honoring the artistry and hard work that define the music industry, while giving fans a front-row seat to the action. Whether you're rooting for your favorite artists or just vibing with the performances, there's something for everyone. Let's get ready to celebrate the best in music together!