Top nominees and standout performances

Kendrick Lamar led the nominations this year with a total of seven nods, including Artist of the Year, Favourite Hip-Hop Album, and Favourite Male Artist. His critically acclaimed album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, earning him a standing ovation during his electrifying performance of “N95” and “Silent Hill.”

Taylor Swift followed closely with six nominations, dominating the pop categories. She took home Favourite Pop Album for Midnights and delivered a visually stunning performance of “Anti-Hero,” complete with a dazzling light show and a surprise appearance by collaborator Jack Antonoff on piano. The crowd erupted as she seamlessly transitioned into a stripped-back version of “You’re On Your Own, Kid.”

Post Malone made a strong showing with five nominations, including Favourite Male Pop Artist and Favourite Collaboration for his hit with Doja Cat, “I Like You (A Happier Song).” His live set was a high-energy medley of fan favourites, capped off with a pyrotechnic-filled rendition of “Chemical” that had the entire arena on its feet.

Sabrina Carpenter, a breakout star this year, earned four nominations, including New Artist of the Year and Favourite Female Pop Artist. She wowed the audience with a sultry, choreographed performance of her chart-topping single “Feather,” showcasing her evolution from Disney alum to full-fledged pop powerhouse.

Other standout performances included a soulful duet between SZA and Hozier, a surprise reunion of Paramore, and a genre-blending set from Morgan Wallen that brought country flair to the main stage. The night was a celebration of musical diversity, with artists from across genres delivering unforgettable moments that kept fans buzzing well into the night.

Red carpet fashion highlights

The red carpet at the 2025 American Music Awards was nothing short of a fashion spectacle, with celebrities pulling out all the stops to make bold, unforgettable statements. Taylor Swift turned heads in a custom emerald green gown by Australian designer Toni Maticevski, featuring a dramatic thigh-high slit and structured shoulders that gave off serious power-dressing vibes. She paired the look with metallic stilettos and a sleek updo, letting her signature red lip do the talking.

Kendrick Lamar opted for a more understated yet impactful ensemble, donning a tailored black suit with subtle embroidery inspired by West African patterns. His choice of accessories—a gold chain and minimalist leather boots—added just the right amount of edge to his look, proving that less can indeed be more.

Sabrina Carpenter embraced old Hollywood glamour in a shimmering silver column dress by Elie Saab, complete with a plunging neckline and delicate beading that caught the light with every step. Her soft waves and diamond drop earrings added to the timeless elegance of her appearance, making her one of the evening’s best-dressed stars.

Post Malone brought his signature flair to the carpet in a custom cowboy-inspired ensemble, blending high fashion with his trademark rugged style. His embroidered white suit, complete with fringe detailing and a wide-brimmed hat, paid homage to his Texan roots while still feeling fresh and red carpet-ready.

Other standout looks included SZA in a sculptural lavender gown by Iris van Herpen, which moved like liquid as she walked, and Hozier in a deep burgundy velvet suit that added a touch of romanticism to the night. Paramore’s Hayley Williams made a statement in a punk-inspired tartan mini dress paired with combat boots, staying true to her edgy aesthetic.

Australian talent also made a strong showing, with The Kid LAROI stepping out in a sleek monochrome look by Melbourne-based label Strateas Carlucci. His minimalist black suit with asymmetrical detailing was a nod to contemporary Aussie fashion, earning him praise from style critics and fans alike.

From classic glamour to avant-garde risk-taking, the red carpet was a celebration of individuality and creativity. Each artist brought their own unique flair, making this year’s fashion moments as memorable as the music itself.

Unforgettable moments from the night

One of the most talked-about moments of the night came when Taylor Swift accepted the award for Artist of the Year. As she took the stage, visibly emotional, she thanked her fans in a heartfelt speech that touched on her journey over the past decade. “This award means the world to me because it’s voted by you,” she said, her voice cracking slightly. The crowd responded with thunderous applause, and social media lit up with praise for her authenticity and gratitude.

In a surprise twist, Kendrick Lamar brought out fellow rapper J. Cole during his second performance of the night, igniting the stage with a never-before-heard collaboration that had fans scrambling to capture the moment. The two lyrical heavyweights traded verses with palpable chemistry, marking a historic moment that many are already calling one of the best live hip-hop performances in AMA history.

Another unforgettable highlight came when Sabrina Carpenter was announced as New Artist of the Year. Overcome with emotion, she dedicated the award to her fans and her late grandmother, who she credited as her biggest supporter. “She always told me I’d be on this stage one day,” Carpenter said, holding back tears. The touching tribute resonated with viewers and added a deeply personal note to the evening’s celebrations.

Post Malone, known for his laid-back persona, brought a dose of humour to the show when he accidentally dropped his mic mid-performance. Laughing it off, he picked it up and continued singing without missing a beat, earning cheers for his professionalism and charm. The moment quickly went viral, with fans praising his ability to stay cool under pressure.

One of the night’s most powerful moments came during a tribute segment honouring late music legends who passed away in the past year. A moving montage played as artists like Billie Eilish, Chris Stapleton, and Alicia Keys performed a medley of classic hits. The arena fell silent as images of Tina Turner, Jimmy Buffett, and Sinéad O’Connor appeared on screen, reminding everyone of the enduring impact these icons had on the music world.

In a nod to global music, Australian artist The Kid LAROI took the stage for a surprise performance with UK singer Raye. Their duet of “Stay” and “Escapism” was met with roaring applause, showcasing the international reach of the AMAs and highlighting the growing influence of Aussie talent on the world stage.

From emotional speeches to unexpected collaborations and viral mishaps, the 2025 American Music Awards delivered a night full of moments that will be remembered long after the final curtain fell. Each surprise and heartfelt gesture added to the magic, making it a truly unforgettable celebration of music and artistry.

Top nominees and standout performances

The 2025 American Music Awards have delivered a dazzling mix of music and glamour, with this year’s top nominees setting the tone for both the stage and the style stakes. Leading the pack is Kendrick Lamar, whose seven nominations reflect his genre-defying influence and lyrical prowess. His performance was a masterclass in stage presence, blending streetwear-inspired tailoring with bold, monochrome layering that echoed his West Coast roots.

Taylor Swift, nominated in six categories, brought her signature blend of ethereal pop and polished elegance. Her live rendition of “Midnight Rain” was accompanied by a dreamy, custom Atelier Versace gown in silver lamé, complete with a dramatic cape that shimmered under the lights—an instant fashion moment that had stylists buzzing from Sydney to Melbourne.

Post Malone, with five nominations, leaned into his edgy aesthetic with a performance that fused rock and hip-hop energy. His look? A deconstructed leather trench over a mesh tank and tailored trousers—grunge meets high fashion, and it worked. His accessories, including layered silver chains and a custom grill, added a rebellious twist that’s already trending on Aussie fashion boards.

Sabrina Carpenter, the breakout darling of the year, stunned with four nominations and a performance that was as much about the visuals as the vocals. She wore a custom Miu Miu mini dress dripping in crystals, paired with thigh-high satin boots—a nod to Y2K revivalism that’s resonating with Gen Z fashionistas across Australia. Her look was playful, polished, and perfectly on-brand.

“This year’s nominees didn’t just bring the music—they brought the mood,”

said one stylist backstage. “From Kendrick’s street-luxe to Sabrina’s sparkle, the AMAs are setting the tone for 2025’s fashion forecast.”

Red carpet fashion highlights

The red carpet at the 2025 American Music Awards was nothing short of a sartorial spectacle, with A-listers serving up bold statements, nostalgic nods, and high-octane glamour. Taylor Swift turned heads in a custom Schiaparelli column gown in deep emerald velvet, featuring exaggerated shoulders and a plunging neckline. The look was finished with vintage Bulgari emeralds and a sleek, centre-parted chignon—pure old-Hollywood drama with a modern edge that’s already inspiring eveningwear edits in Sydney boutiques.

Sabrina Carpenter continued her fashion hot streak in a sheer, corseted gown by Australian favourite Dion Lee. The dress, crafted from layered mesh and boning, was both architectural and ethereal, paired with metallic Jimmy Choos and a crystal-studded micro bag. Her soft-glam makeup and tousled waves gave the look a youthful, wearable finish that’s perfect for the Aussie summer party season.

Kendrick Lamar kept things sharp and directional in a Rick Owens ensemble—structured leather blazer, wide-leg trousers, and a sculptural turtleneck in matte black. His look was elevated with square-toe boots and a single diamond earring, proving that minimalism can still make a major impact. It’s a silhouette that’s gaining traction in men’s and unisex fashion circles down under.

Post Malone surprised with a softer take on his usual grunge aesthetic, arriving in a dusty rose satin suit by Gucci, layered over a lace shirt and finished with pearl detailing. The unexpected colour choice and romantic textures offered a fresh take on red carpet masculinity, and it’s already being dissected by stylists from Brisbane to Perth.

• Doja Cat made a dramatic entrance in a sculptural Iris van Herpen creation, with laser-cut organza wings that moved like liquid. It was avant-garde couture at its finest, and a reminder that fashion is still art.
• Olivia Rodrigo embraced 90s minimalism in a sleek Calvin Klein slip dress, paired with barely-there heels and a bold red lip. The simplicity was striking—and totally wearable for Aussie fashion lovers.
• Chloe Bailey brought the drama in a metallic Balmain catsuit with exaggerated hips and a plunging neckline. Her look was futuristic, fierce, and unapologetically bold.

“This year’s red carpet was all about contrasts—soft versus structured, nostalgic versus futuristic,”

noted a Melbourne-based stylist. “It’s a masterclass in how to mix high fashion with personal flair.”