The American Music Awards (AMAs), one of the most anticipated music events, is making its grand return this year. After taking a break in 2023 and initially planning to come back in fall 2024 for its 50th anniversary special, the AMAs have shifted gears. This time, it will air live from Las Vegas on CBS and Paramount+ on Monday, May 26, coinciding with Memorial Day. The event promises to celebrate the year's top musical achievements while honoring U.S. veterans, marking a unique blend of entertainment and tribute.

Details of the 51st Annual American Music Awards

In the vibrant setting of Las Vegas, the 51st edition of the AMAs will take place on a significant date—Memorial Day, May 26. This marks the first time the awards show has aired in May, adding a new dimension to the event. Organized by Dick Clark Productions, the AMAs are renowned as the world’s largest fan-voted award show, where fans play a crucial role in selecting the winners. The ceremony will broadcast live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT across the United States, ensuring coast-to-coast coverage.

The timing of this year’s AMAs comes just months after the 2025 Grammys, which also aired on CBS. The 50th anniversary special, which aired on October 6, 2023, saw an impressive audience of over 6 million viewers, representing a 54% increase compared to the 2022 AMAs on ABC. Additionally, the special garnered unprecedented streaming success, amassing 65 million views across various social media platforms within a week of its broadcast.

Looking back, the 2022 AMAs, held on November 20, was a memorable night for Taylor Swift, who won all six awards she was nominated for, including Artist of the Year, extending her record as the most-awarded artist in AMAs history.

This year’s event is poised to be equally exciting, celebrating not only the best in music but also paying homage to U.S. veterans. With such a prestigious lineup and the significance of the date, the 51st AMAs promise to be a night to remember.

From a journalist's perspective, the shift in timing to Memorial Day adds a layer of depth to the AMAs, blending celebration with remembrance. It highlights the power of music to unite people during important national moments. As fans eagerly await this year’s nominees and performances, the AMAs continue to evolve, staying relevant and engaging for audiences nationwide.