On Monday night at the glittering 2025 American Music Awards, Rod Stewart captivated the audience with a vibrant rendition of "Forever Young," marking the occasion where he was honored with the prestigious AMA Lifetime Achievement Award. Prior to his electrifying performance, all five of his children, whose names resonate in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, graced the stage to pay tribute to their legendary father. A compelling video montage subsequently unfolded, chronicling the vast expanse of Stewart's illustrious career.
"Back in the early 60s, when I first embarked on this musical journey, long before any of you wonderful folks were around, my sole motive was driven by an unquenchable desire to sing," Stewart reflected fondly. "It was my singular passion; wealth and fame were never my objectives. And now, here I stand, many years later, embracing this magnificent award with immense gratitude."
He heaped praises upon his musical mentors and collaborators, particularly citing Sam Cooke, David Ruffin, and Muddy Waters. "I owe a profound thank you to all the musicians I've had the privilege of performing with, and to all those who have inspired me," he added warmly.
Following the acceptance of his honor, Stewart ignited the stage with his 1988 hit "Forever Young," his energetic dance moves and the lively symphony of his backup dancers and musicians creating an exhilarating atmosphere. This marked Stewart's triumphant return to the AMAs, after an absence spanning over two decades since his last appearance in 2004, where he mesmerized the crowd with a soulful rendering of Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World."
Jennifer Lopez wore multiple hats on this memorable night, serving as both the host with grace and elegance, and as one of the evening's star performers. She was joined by an array of talented artists including Benson Boone, Blake Shelton, Gloria Estefan, Gwen Stefani, Lainey Wilson, and Reneé Rapp, who all left their marks on the stage.
Janet Jackson made her television comeback after a seven-year hiatus with a mesmerizing performance at the 2025 AMAs, where she was also honored with the Icon Award. The singer of "That's the Way Love Goes" had previously been recognized at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards with the Icon Award, where she delighted fans with a medley of "Nasty," "If," and "Throb."
In the awards department, Billie Eilish claimed the Artist of the Year title, while her album "Hit Me Hard and Soft" secured the Album of the Year, and "Birds of a Feather" soared to victory as the Song of the Year. Gracie Abrams emerged as the New Artist of the Year. Prior to the event, Kendrick Lamar led the nominations with a formidable ten nods, closely followed by Post Malone, Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Shaboozey.
Dick Clark Productions, a subsidiary jointly owned by Penske Media Corporation and Eldridge, and the parent company of The Hollywood Reporter, was the creator behind the AMAs. The star-studded red carpet arrivals and the evening's comprehensive list of winners painted a picture of a night filled with music, glory, and timeless memories.
