The 2025 American Music Awards was more than just a night of glitz and glam—it was a cultural reset. The stage was set, the stars were ready, and the results? Nothing short of iconic. From Billie Eilish sweeping the show to Beyoncé’s unexpected win in Country, this year’s AMAs proved music is evolving—and fast.
Let’s dive deep into all the unforgettable highlights, surprising wins, and viral moments that defined the night.
Billie Eilish’s Big Night
7 Nominations, 7 Wins
Billie Eilish didn’t just show up—she showed out, virtually. Despite being in Europe on tour, the “Birds of a Feather” singer made her presence known in a big way by winning all seven of her nominations. Yes, you read that right—7 for 7!
Major Categories Won
- Artist of the Year
- Album of the Year for “HIT ME HARD AND SOFT”
- Song of the Year and Favorite Pop Song for “Birds of a Feather”
- Favorite Female Pop Artist
- Favorite Pop Album
- Favorite Touring Artist
That’s basically the music industry’s version of a royal flush.
Not in the Room, Yet All Eyes on Her
Even though she wasn’t physically at the AMAs, Billie Eilish’s domination sparked a social media storm. Her acceptance speech via video from Europe was brief but heartfelt, thanking fans for their unwavering support.
Beyoncé Breaks Through in Country
“COWBOY CARTER” Gets the Recognition It Deserves
After being snubbed at both the CMAs and ACMs, Beyoncé finally got her flowers—winning Favorite Female Country Artist and Favorite Country Album. Her revolutionary take on country music through “COWBOY CARTER” isn’t just pushing boundaries—it’s tearing them down.
A Cultural Shift in Music
The win signals something bigger than a trophy—it shows how genres are blending, and audiences are more open than ever.
Taylor Swift’s Unexpected Miss
Swifties Left Hanging
No “Reputation (Taylor’s Version)” announcement, no award wins—just a whole lot of disappointment. Taylor was nominated in several categories but didn’t take home a single award.
Still Queen of the Charts
Although the AMAs didn’t crown her this year, Swift’s fanbase remains stronger than ever. Maybe 2026 will be her comeback?
Rod Stewart: A Living Legend
Lifetime Achievement Award
One of the night’s most emotional moments was when Rod Stewart received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
“Forever Young” Performance
His performance of “Forever Young” was timeless, drawing cheers and some tears from the audience. A truly unforgettable moment.
Genre-Specific Winners
Pop
- Favorite Female Pop Artist: Billie Eilish
- Favorite Male Pop Artist: Bruno Mars
- Favorite Pop Album: HIT ME HARD AND SOFT – Billie Eilish
- Favorite Pop Song: “Birds of a Feather” – Billie Eilish
Country
- Favorite Male Country Artist: Post Malone
- Favorite Female Country Artist: Beyoncé
- Favorite Country Duo or Group: Dan + Shay
- Favorite Country Album: COWBOY CARTER – Beyoncé
- Favorite Country Song: “I Had Some Help” – Post Malone ft. Morgan Wallen
Hip-Hop
- Favorite Male Hip-Hop Artist: Eminem
- Favorite Female Hip-Hop Artist: Megan Thee Stallion
- Favorite Hip-Hop Album: The Death Of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce) – Eminem
- Favorite Hip-Hop Song: “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
R&B
- Favorite Male R&B Artist: The Weeknd
- Favorite Female R&B Artist: SZA
- Favorite R&B Album: Hurry Up Tomorrow – The Weeknd
- Favorite R&B Song: “Saturn” – SZA
Latin
- Favorite Male Latin Artist: Bad Bunny
- Favorite Female Latin Artist: Becky G
- Favorite Latin Album: DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS – Bad Bunny
- Favorite Latin Song: “Soltera” – Shakira
- Favorite Latin Duo or Group: Julión Álvarez y su Norteño Banda
Rock
- Favorite Rock Artist: Twenty-One Pilots
- Favorite Rock Album: Clancy – Twenty One Pilots
- Favorite Rock Song: “The Emptiness Machine” – Linkin Park
Other Genres
- Favorite Dance/Electronic Artist: Lady Gaga
- Favorite Soundtrack: Arcane League of Legends: Season 2
- Favorite Afrobeats Artist: Tyla
- Favorite K-pop Artist: RM
Newcomers to Watch
Gracie Abrams: New Artist of the Year
This one felt well-earned. With emotional lyrics and rising chart placements, Gracie Abrams is becoming a staple in Gen Z playlists.
Doechii: Social Song Winner
With “Anxiety” taking over TikTok and reels, Doechii captured what many are feeling, earning her a win for Social Song of the Year.
Best Collaboration: Gaga & Mars
“Die With A Smile” was a sonic masterpiece. The duet between Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars won Collaboration of the Year, and honestly? It deserved every bit of that trophy.
Music Video & Soundtrack Excellence
- Favorite Music Video: “Die With A Smile”
- Favorite Soundtrack: Arcane: League of Legends Season 2 — a big win for animation fans and gamers alike.
Touring & Country Crossovers
Post Malone made waves, winning Favorite Male Country Artist and Country Song with Morgan Wallen for “I Had Some Help.”
Viral Moments
From Jennifer Lopez’s bold dance routine to the fan-led social media campaigns, the AMAs kept the internet buzzing all night.
What It Means for the Music Industry
We’re seeing a new era—one where artists are genre-fluid, fans are global, and award shows are about more than just music. They’re cultural events, social statements, and emotional experiences.
Conclusion
This year’s AMAs reminded us of one thing: music is constantly evolving, and the artists who embrace change are the ones who thrive. Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and the next-gen talents like Gracie Abrams are proof that authenticity, risk-taking, and fan connection reign supreme.
So whether you were cheering on your faves or discovering new ones, the 2025 AMAs gave everyone something to remember.
FAQs
Q1: Why wasn’t Billie Eilish at the AMAs this year?
A: Billie was on her European tour but still accepted her awards via video.
Q2: Did Taylor Swift win any awards in 2025?
A: Surprisingly, no. Despite multiple nominations, Swift didn’t win this year.
Q3: Which artist won the most awards at the 2025 AMAs?
A: Billie Eilish dominated with 7 wins out of 7 nominations.
Q4: Who won the Favorite Country Album?
A: Beyoncé took home the award for her genre-blending album “COWBOY CARTER.”
Q5: What was the most viral moment of the AMAs 2025?
A: Jennifer Lopez’s performance, where she made out with her dancers, definitely stole the spotlight online.