BTS named artist of the year at 2021 American Music Awards

Los Angeles: South Korean boy band BTS was named artist of the year at the American Music Awards (AMA) in Los Angeles on Sunday - the top prize at the world's largest fan-voted ceremony.

The acclaimed band beat rival nominees Ariana Grande, Drake, Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift and The Weeknd.

With this, BTS has become the first Asian act in history to win Artist of the Year at the AMA, and this also marks band’s third consecutive year winning Favorite Pop Duo or Group.

Announced as winners for Favorite Pop Duo or Group, BTS came up on stage to receive their trophy. 

ARMY! ? You did it! You voted and @BTS_twt is the #AMAs Artist of The Year! Congrats! ? #BTSxAMAs pic.twitter.com/wJ6NDQgHbo

— American Music Awards (@AMAs) November 22, 2021

You BUTTER believe it! @BTS_twt's "Butter" is your #AMAs Favorite Pop Song! ? #BTSxAMAs pic.twitter.com/v6OsYs9Bf9

— American Music Awards (@AMAs) November 22, 2021

At the ceremony, BTS performed “My Universe” in collaboration with Coldplay as well as “Butter.”

They're setting the night alight and winning the #AMAs for Favorite Pop Duo or Group! CONGRATS, @BTS_twt! ? #BTSxAMAs pic.twitter.com/fzQs7M5HrW

— American Music Awards (@AMAs) November 22, 2021

Moreover, the show celebrated the best popular music for a second pandemic year with a mix of live and pre-taped performances.

The fan-voted awards show aired live from Los Angeles on ABC.

Nominees were based on streaming, album and digital sales, radio airplay and social activity, and reflect the time period of Sept. 25, 2020, through Sept. 23, 2021.