The Billboard Music Awards went down last night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and there were quite a handful of unforgettable moments. From Vanessa Hudgens spitting Nicki’s “Monster” verse after encouragement from co-host Ludacris, to K-pop sensation BTS taking home the award for Top Social Artist, beating out Ariana Grande and Shawn Mendes. In addition, some of the industry’s biggest names graced the stage and delivered show-stopping performances. Read our recap of the evening’s most standout sets below.
Julia Michaels
Mark our words: 2017 will be the year of Julia Michaels. She has quickly transformed from one of our favorite songwriters, penning bops for Bieber, Selena and Gwen, to becoming an absolute star in the making. Her vulnerable take on her own top 10 hit “Issues” was simply stunning. The songstress has opened up previously about her stage fright; however, she performed like a natural out there – telling her story with nothing other than enrapturing vocals. This is merely the beginning of Julia’s successful career.
https://twitter.com/lovesey/status/866455317974052864
Drake
Last name ever, first name greatest. Drizzy ended the night by breaking Adele’s record for most awards won during a single award show with 13 trophies to his name. On top of that stellar achievement, the Canadian gave an epic performance of “Gyalchester,” which took place inside the famous Fountains of Bellagio. Would you expect anything less him, though? The “Passionfruit” rapper’s set was equipped with fireworks, flamethrowers and a visual concept that left everyone mesmerized.
Fire… fountains.. @drake… going to be hard to top that performance. #DRAKExBBMAs pic.twitter.com/r1dIHhI0A5
— Billboard Music Awards (@BBMAs) May 22, 2017
Camila Cabello
After parting ways with Fifth Harmony back in December, all eyes were on Camila as she gave her solo debut at this year’s BBMAs, following the triumph of her and MGK’s “Bad Things” era. At the tender age of 20, the former girl group member beautifully showcased a great deal of artistry with her smoldering ballad, “I Have Questions.” “When did you leave me here to burn” she sang. The track switched over to “Crying in the Club” and Camila proved herself as a one-woman show, passionately empowering the theme of the song with fiery visuals.
No crying in the club… what about after that performance? ? @Camila_Cabello was SO amazing tonight! #CamilaxBBMAs pic.twitter.com/JYrZttt5fN
— Billboard Music Awards (@BBMAs) May 22, 2017
Miley Cyrus
It looks like Miley’s wrecking ball-riding, foam finger-wearing days are behind her. The 24-year-old was introduced by her real life-turned-television father Billy Ray Cyrus and younger sister Noah. The breakout singer even joked it was Miles’ “first time [appearing] in years with pants on.” Her performance of her new single “Malibu” was authentic, raw and everything we could have ever wanted from the former Disney sensation. Her teary-eyed delivery left viewers everywhere able to vividly see these country roots are where Miley belongs.
https://twitter.com/TheMileyDaily/status/866467075220529152
Cher
We believe Cher, we believe. Mind-boggling that this pop legend turned 71-years-old over the weekend and can still rock heart-shaped pasties and dazzling leotard ensembles better than most. It is self-explanatory as to why she received the evening’s Icon Award. Cher turned back time with her first award show performance in 15 years, donning her iconic black curly wig prior to a tribute video for lifetime achievements in the field. Her acceptance speech was also charming and humorous – proudly revealing to the crowd she can do a five-minute plank.
#BBMAs: @Cher sings “If I Could Turn Back Time” pic.twitter.com/rhb6ok0xkL
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) May 22, 2017
Celine Dion
Celine is one of the greatest vocalists of all-time and hearing her heart-wrenching rendition of “My Heart Will Go On” proved that statement is timeless, even if two decades go by. In honor of the Titanic theme song’s 20-year anniversary, the superstar took the stage with her signature song and had the crowd on their feet for a long-lasting, well-deserved standing ovation. Fangirl Vanessa Hudgens yelling out “I love you, Celine!” following the performance was each and every one of us watching at home, uncontrollably sobbing into our pint of Ben & Jerry’s.
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What was your favorite performance of the evening? Let us know, @CelebMix.