The 2025 American Music Awards are set to take place tonight in Las Vegas, with Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift leading the nominations. Lamar has 10 nods, while Swift follows with six. The event will air live on CBS and stream on Paramount+ at 8 p.m. ET.
Hosted by Jennifer Lopez, the show will feature performances from Janet Jackson, Rod Stewart, and others. Winners are decided by fan votes, making this one of the most interactive music award shows. Lamar and Swift are competing for Artist of the Year, alongside other stars like Post Malone, Beyoncé, and SZA.
Lamar’s hit “Not Like Us” is up for Song of the Year, continuing its dominance after winning five Grammys. The track, part of his feud with Drake, was performed at this year’s Super Bowl. Meanwhile, Swift, who holds the record for most AMA wins (40), could extend her lead with categories like Favorite Pop Album for “The Tortured Poets Department.”
Post Malone is another major contender with eight nominations, including Favorite Male Country Artist. Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” is nominated for Album of the Year and Favorite Country Album, marking her strong crossover into country music.
Special honors will go to Janet Jackson (Icon Award) and Rod Stewart (Lifetime Achievement Award). The show promises high-energy performances and surprises, with Swifties speculating if Taylor will announce new music.
Key Nominees and Categories
Artist of the Year
Kendrick Lamar
Taylor Swift
Post Malone
Beyoncé
SZA
Song of the Year
“Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
“Fortnight” – Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone
“I Had Some Help” – Post Malone ft. Morgan Wallen
Album of the Year
“GNX” – Kendrick Lamar
“The Tortured Poets Department” – Taylor Swift
“Cowboy Carter” – Beyoncé
Fan Theories and Expectations
Swifties believe Taylor Swift might drop hints about “Reputation (Taylor’s Version)” at the AMAs. Clues include her website rearranging sections to spell “AMAS” and the number 26 (today’s date) appearing in her past Easter eggs.
Meanwhile, Lamar’s Grand National Tour with SZA has broken records, grossing over $112 million so far. Their collaboration “Luther” is nominated for Collaboration of the Year, adding to Lamar’s already historic year.
How to Watch
The AMAs will air live on CBS and stream on Paramount+ (premium tier). Viewers can also watch on-demand starting Tuesday.
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