Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, the legendary rocker, turned back the hands of time with a soul-stirring performance of his classic hit “Forever Young” as he accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 American Music Awards on Monday night.
The emotional evening began with a heartwarming tribute from Stewart’s five children, who joined him onstage to honor the man behind the music. Their touching words were followed by a powerful video montage, showcasing decades of Stewart’s contributions to the world of music—from his humble beginnings to his global superstardom.
Looking back on his journey, Stewart reflected with gratitude and humility.
“When I started singing in the early ’60s—way before any of you lot were here—the reason I got into it was because I had this burning ambition to sing. That’s all I wanted to do. I didn’t want to be rich or famous. And here I am, a few years later, picking up this wonderful award,” he said to roaring applause.
Stewart also paid tribute to the legends who helped shape his musical identity.
“I want to thank all of the musicians I’ve played with, all of my influences,” he said, highlighting icons like Sam Cooke, David Ruffin, and Muddy Waters—names that echoed through the venue with reverence.
Then came the showstopper. As the spotlight returned to him post-acceptance, Stewart launched into a rousing performance of “Forever Young,” flanked by dancers and a full band. His unmistakable voice and electrifying energy turned the stage into a celebration of not only music but resilience, timelessness, and legacy.
The moment also marked a significant return for Stewart—his first AMAs appearance since 2004, when he delivered a memorable cover of Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World.”
Jennifer Lopez, doubling as the evening’s host and one of its most dazzling performers, kept the pace energetic and engaging throughout. The night also featured performances by Benson Boone, Blake Shelton, Gloria Estefan, Gwen Stefani, Lainey Wilson, and Reneé Rapp.
Another milestone moment came from Janet Jackson, who stunned with her first television performance in seven years and received the Icon Award. Jackson previously wowed fans at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards with a medley including “Nasty,” “If,” and “Throb.”
Billie Eilish emerged as the night’s biggest winner, sweeping Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for Hit Me Hard and Soft, and Song of the Year for “Birds of a Feather.” Rising star Gracie Abrams was crowned New Artist of the Year, while a competitive field saw Kendrick Lamar leading the nomination count with 10, closely followed by Post Malone, Chappell Roan, Billie Eilish, and Shaboozey.
Produced by Dick Clark Productions under Penske Media Corporation (a joint venture with Eldridge), the 2025 American Music Awards once again proved why it remains one of the industry’s most celebrated nights. From heartfelt tributes to show-stopping performances, the event was a tribute to musical excellence—and a reminder that legends like Rod Stewart never fade, they simply evolve.
