The 2026 American Music Awards: Performances and Highlights

4 weeks ago 0

The American Music Awards mark the unofficial start of summer tonight, celebrating top musicians with performances by Billy Idol, Keith Urban, and Teyana Taylor, among others. The event airs on CBS and streams on Paramount+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

As the largest fan-voted awards show globally, voting for most categories closed earlier this month. Fans can still vote online or via Instagram for social song of the year and tour of the year during the first 30 minutes of the show.

Host and Headliner

Queen Latifah hosts the AMAs, reprising her role from 1995. She returns with a legacy in the music and entertainment industry.

Leading Nominees

Taylor Swift leads this year’s nominations with eight, thanks to her album “The Life of a Showgirl,” which is up for album and best pop album. Songs “The Fate of Ophelia” and “Elizabeth Taylor” are nominated for song categories. Swift has previously won 40 AMA awards.

Following closely are Morgan Wallen, Olivia Dean, Sabrina Carpenter, and Sombr, each with seven nominations.

Performances

Billy Idol will receive a lifetime achievement award, performing a medley of his hits like “Dancing With Myself.” Idol’s contribution to music has earned him notable recognition.

Keith Urban will showcase a track from his yacht rock album “Flow State,” while Teyana Taylor will perform selections from her album “Escape Room.” Taylor was honored with a Golden Globe this year for “One Battle After Another.”

The lineup includes groups like Hootie and the Blowfish, New Kids on the Block, and The Pussycat Dolls. K-pop sensation BTS, who recently ended a military hiatus, will appear, nominated for three awards.