The 2018 AMA’s were nothing short of FANTASTIC this year. Between the red carpet fashion, performances, posts on social media and winners of the night, it was eventful and entertaining the whole way through. Here’s a breakdown of the night.
Photo from Today
1. Tracee Ellis Ross had outfit changes galore and slayed her opening performance
Ellis Ross, who hosted the show again this year, had 13 outfit changes over the course of the show – beating her 11 changes last year. Performing a mashup of songs including Childish Gambino, Cardi B, and Beyonce, Ellis Ross gave a show-stopping performance – it even left her catching her breath at the end, telling Taylor she doesn’t know how she does that all the time.
Photo from Billboard
2. Cardi B performed “I Like It” with J Balvin and Bad Bunny
It was a true Havana/Dominican Republic night for Miss Cardi. Not only did she take home 3 awards including Favorite Artist – Rap/Hip-Hop, but she gave a stellar performance of her song of the summer. She busted some dance moves, had Bad Bunny and J Balvin perform with her and transported you to summer in Havana. Her performance even left SNL star Taran Killam jaw-dropped.
Photo from Hollywood Reporter
3. Camila Cabello took home 4 awards
It has been an amazing year for Camila and it doesn’t seem like it’s going to slow down anytime soon. Camila took home 4 wins on AMA’s night – including Favorite Artist and Video of the Year. She even performed “Consequences” from her debut album, which has been released as a single in a new orchestra version. Camila and Taylor sat next to each other throughout the night – and they had a great night celebrating each other’s wins.
Photo from Elle
4. Taylor Swift gave a powerful acceptance speech
Taylor Swift had a big night, too. From opening the show with “I Did Something Bad” off of her latest album, to also winning four awards including Tour of the Year, and hinting at new music coming – Taylor was a full force to be reckoned with. But the biggest standout of the night? Taylor’s acceptance speech for Artist of the Year. She told those watching the award about mid-term elections coming up on November 6th and to “go vote”. Taylor recently talked about her support for Democrats – and she brought that important message to the award show. Props to Miss Swift.
Photo from People
5. Mariah Carey performed her latest single
The iconic Pop Diva aka Mariah, shocked the stage in a bright pink dress with her new song, “With You”, which was the first time she ever performed the single on TV. It was also the first time she performed at the AMA’s in 10 years. With the stage set in pink and a bunch of shirtless men coming out of her dress – it was a classic Mariah performance that killed and had people like Camila Cabello giving her a standing ovation. And those vocals? Nothing short of great and I expected nothing less. Way to slay the game, Mariah. I have to go watch the music video now.
Photo from People
6. Gladys Knight performed for the Aretha Franklin
This performance made you feel like you time traveled to Sunday and you went to church. Aretha Franklin, who recently passed away this year, was given a great tribute during the show and the incredible Gladys Knight sang for the performance. Other gospel artists like Mary Mary and Cece Winans performed with the Queen of Soul – and it was a great way to close out to show. They sure showed Aretha the r-e-s-p-e-c-t she deserved.