The 2022 American Music Awards took place at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday (Nov. 20). Adeptly hosted by Wayne Brady, the 2022 AMAs saw Taylor Swift win all six of her categories, extending her win as the most-awarded artist in the history of the AMAs. Swift now has 40 AMA wins in the show’s 50-year history, putting her ahead of three late icons: Michael Jackson (26 wins), Whitney Houston (22) and Kenny Rogers (19).
Despite the celebratory tone of the evening, the ABC broadcast came less than 24 hours after a gunman opened fire at a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colo., leaving five dead and at least 25 injured. Host Brady, performer/AMA best new artist winner Dove Cameron and presenter (not to mention Hot 100 topper) Kim Petras all spoke about the attack on the LGBTQ community, touching on the senseless tragedy and resilience of the queer community. This meant that while musical performances (and awards, naturally) occupied the bulk of the evening, many of the more impactful moments came from artists candidly addressing the tragedy.
Of course, there was still joy to be found, whether through the energetic chemistry of surprise guest Cardi B joining Glo Rilla or Taylor Swift Stanning for her fans during three AMAs acceptance speeches. Plus, the long-running friendship between Smokey Robinson and AMA Icon Award honoree Lionel Richie provided a few laughs, even culminating in an all-star sing-along to an ‘80s smash hit with both Richie and Robison on stage.
Check out the best moments from the 2022 AMAs below.