From singing digital cats to Scandal-like storytelling, last night’s American Music Awards performances had several tweet-worthy moments you have to see.
Lady Gaga, R. Kelly: ‘Do What U Want’
Lady Gaga and R. Kelly performed Mother Monster’s “Do What U Want” single from ARTPOP. It included an interesting storyline in which Gaga is trying to convince the President to have her body. It reminded us of Scandal and Olivia Pope’s interest in President Fitz. How appropriate considering the awards show was broadcast on ABC!
Rihanna: ‘Diamonds’
Accepting an ICON Award presented by her mother (awwww), Rihanna thanked fans by performing one of her recent singles “Diamonds”:
Below, watch Bill Maher and Mama Rihanna’s induction speeches:
By the way: Who is Bill Maher to Rihanna? His appearance during the singer’s segment was bizarre, and a quick Google search yields no connection between the two stars. It seemed odd to us that Maher would describe Rihanna as “the voice of our time.”
Justin Timberlake: “Drink You Away”
The “big band” performance of the night was assigned to Justin Timberlake who performed “Drink You Away” off his latest album The 20/20 Experience, Part 2. It was a fun song if only for all of the happy people on stage.
Miley Cyrus: “Wrecking Ball”
It’s not a performance by Miley unless she gets everyone talking. Last night’s rendition of “Wrecking Ball” included a digital, singing kitty on a big screen behind the emotional singer. The cat changed facial expressions a couple of times during the performance and – we have to admit – was adorable looking. The purpose of the cat? Making people talk about Miley. In our opinion, it’s much better than that nude music video.
Great Big World and Christina Aguilera: “Say Something”
Unquestionably the most emotional performance of the night went to Great Big World and Christina Aguilera who performed the former’s new song “Say Something.” The arrangement is similar to the song’s music video and tugs at your heart as they tell the story of a relationship’s final moments.
Katy Perry: “Unconditionally”
Perry opened the American Music Awards by channeling her love for Japan in a performance of a song from her new album PRISM.
One Direction: “Story of My Life”
The boys celebrated their release of Midnight Memories (now available!) with a performance of their latest single “Story of My Life.” Harry Styles took lead vocals and belted the chorus in several moments.
See a complete list of AMA winners and losers in our previous article.