JILLIAN CORNACCHIONE AND STANLEY BINGHAM
Despite TV ratings dropping nearly 25% from last year’s American Music Awards, several pop stars put on renowned presentations under the spotlight October 9, 2018. The awards took place at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California and was aired live on ABC. Prominent performances were put on by Taylor Swift, Cardi B, Twenty One Pilots and many more prior to the awards ceremony.
The AMAs is an annual American music awards show that showcases great talent from the top artists of the year. Unlike the Grammy Awards, the AMAs winners are determined by polls voted on by the public.
Noteworthy winners that were voted for by fans include Taylor Swift, who received Artist of the Year, Camila Cabello, who won New Artist of the Year and Migos who was named Favorite Duo or Group. Drake and Ed Sheeran were on the ballot for several accolades but ended up empty handed.
“Drake should have won Favorite Music Video with ‘God’s Plan’,” said Mason Fortner, 11. “It was huge at the beginning of the year and people still liked it as time passed. I do not understand how he did not win.”
Preceding the awards ceremony, Taylor Swift started by singing “I Did Something Bad” from her album “Reputation”, which also took the award for Favorite Album.
“Taylor Swift’s performance was edgy and bold,” said Leah Bardar, 11. “I loved how passionate she was about her music. It was definitely the highlight of the night.”
Shawn Mendes and Zedd followed up with “Lost in Japan” as special effects exploded around them and caught the crowd’s attention. Cardi B then made a bold entrance on a tropical stage as she sang “I Like It Like That” in a vibrant outfit, making sure to leave a lasting mark on the evening. Jennifer Lopez also made an appearance performing her new song “Limitless” with a crowd of dancers behind her.
The show put on by the stars was accompanied by the extravagance of the program that left the audience more than satisfied. Winners at this year’s show certainly hope to be back to defend their crown next year and up and coming prodigies will burst onto the scene as always.
