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BTS secures Artist of the Year at American Music Awards again
The South Korean septet BTS has won the American Music Awards' highest accolade for the second consecutive year, reinforcing their global dominance in the music industry.
A night of triumph for K-pop and global artists
The band, often hailed as the kings of K-pop, claimed the Artist of the Year title, beating out heavyweights like Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, and Bad Bunny. This win follows their nearly four-year hiatus, during which they completed mandatory military service, and their highly anticipated return in March with a $1 billion world tour.
BTS also took home awards for Song of the Summer for their single Swim and Best Male K-pop Artist. Their label partners, Katseye, were named New Artist of the Year, while the animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters saw its viral single Golden crowned Song of the Year.
Other notable winners and moments
Sabrina Carpenter dominated the pop categories, winning Album of the Year for Man's Best Friend, Best Female Pop Artist, and Best Pop Album. Justin Bieber was named Best Male Pop Artist, while PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson won Collaboration of the Year for Stateside. Larsson also secured Breakthrough Album of the Year for Midnight Sun.
Rock legend Billy Idol received the Lifetime Achievement Award, coinciding with his upcoming induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Black Eyed Peas won Best Throwback Song for Rock That Body, and Sombr, SZA, Kendrick Lamar, and Cardi B were among other artists who took home awards.
"I wrote this song when I was 19 and depressed all by myself in my bedroom. So being here, I never would have expected that."
Sombr, on winning Best Rock/Alternative Song for Back to Friends
The power of the BTS Army
The AMAs are decided entirely by public vote, making fan engagement a critical factor in the outcomes. BTS's dedicated fanbase, known as the ARMY (Adorable Representative M.C. for Youth), has played a pivotal role in the band's success. Millions of fans worldwide mobilize to support the group, filling stadiums, streaming their music, and orchestrating online campaigns to boost their rankings.
During their acceptance speech, BTS leader RM, 31, expressed gratitude to their fans: "Armys, we did it once again! Since this is a fan-voted award, our biggest thanks and gratitude, as always, go to Armys all over the world."
J-Hope, 32, added, "We've had such an overwhelming response to this album. Honestly, thank you for embracing Arirang and every single song on this album. We're so grateful." Jimin, 30, also thanked fans for their unwavering support during the band's tour across the U.S. and upcoming performances in Busan, South Korea.
A return to form and future plans
BTS's fifth studio album, Arirang, released in March, has been described by BBC music correspondent Mark Savage as a "genuine return to form," reigniting the energy that propelled the band to global fame. The album's success has been bolstered by their ongoing world tour, which will culminate in Busan in June to celebrate their 13th debut anniversary.
The AMAs, hosted by Queen Latifah, featured performances from artists including Katseye, Keith Urban, New Kids on the Block, Teddy Swims, and Twenty One Pilots, making it a night of celebration for the music industry.
