TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The 2026 AMAs performances are just as headline-worthy as the triumphs celebrated throughout the night. Held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the ceremony left audiences stunned with stages that were electrifying, explosive, and utterly captivating.
Among the performers, Billboard ranked the night’s absolute standouts. While pop sensations BTS and KATSEYE once again proved their mastery of commanding the stage, the Pussycat Dolls delivered a nostalgic reunion alongside Busta Rhymes, and Karol G brought the vibrant essence of her roots to the spotlight.
10 Best 2026 AMA Performances, Rated by Billboard
1. KATSEYE, “Pinky Up”
With their chart-topping hit “Pinky Up,” KATSEYE delivered one of the night’s most eye-catching performances. Emerging dramatically from inside a giant teddy bear, the members—performing without Manon amid her temporary hiatus—were dressed in vibrant head-to-toe outfits. They blended playful visuals with fierce choreography and powerful live vocals, bringing a colorful yet chaotic charm that completely lit up the AMAs stage.
2. BTS, “Hooligan”
While prerecorded performances often feel a bit distant, BTS proved that the rule simply does not apply to them. Their “Hooligan” performance was broadcast live from Allegiant Stadium during the group’s ARIRANG World Tour. Even so, audiences could almost believe they were performing directly at the AMAs, as the explosive energy came straight through the screen.
3. Karol G, “Ivonny Bonita”
Fresh off headlining Coachella last month, Karol G once again captivated audiences with another unforgettable stage. Her “Ivonny Bonita” performance effortlessly showed why the International Artist Award of Excellence rightfully belongs to her. The vibrant set design perfectly complemented Karol G’s signature blend of powerful vocals and acrobatic choreography.
4. Sombr, “Homewrecker”
One of the standout AMAs winners, Sombr successfully transformed the stage into something resembling his own arena concert. The 21-year-old New York singer-songwriter confidently delivered “Homewrecker” to both the live crowd and viewers at home, heightened by dramatic blue-and-white lighting effects. The performance became even more striking when rain-like water poured from above, adding a raw rock-star atmosphere to the stage.
5. Pussycat Dolls feat. Busta Rhymes & Spliff Star, “Buttons” / “When I Grow Up” / “Club Song” / “Don’t Cha”
Perhaps nothing at the 2026 AMAs felt more nostalgic than the return of The Pussycat Dolls. Nicole Scherzinger, Kimberly Wyatt, and Ashley Roberts stormed the stage in red skintight latex outfits while performing a medley of their timeless hits. Making the moment even more exciting, the group also reunited with Busta Rhymes and Spliff Star for an explosive throwback performance.
6. Teyana Taylor, “All of Your Heart”
The night suddenly felt like the beginning of an alien invasion when Teyana Taylor performed “All of Your Heart.” Emerging from an alien pod, she quickly transformed the stage into a futuristic silver sci-fi world. For fans who watched her red carpet interview earlier in the evening, the theatrical choreography may not have come as a complete surprise after her daughters teased parts of the performance beforehand.
7. Maluma, “Tu Recuerdo”
Maluma delivered one of the ceremony’s most charismatic performances, complete with a microphone stand wrapped in the Colombian flag. As he performed “Tu Recuerdo,” he brought a vibrant Latin spirit to the stage through energetic salsa-inspired choreography. Maluma even made the set more engaging by stepping off the stage midway through the song to interact directly with the crowd.
8. Hootie & the Blowfish, “Hold My Hand” / “Only Wanna Be With You”
Hootie & the Blowfish added another layer of nostalgia to the night with performances of two beloved ’90s classics. Frontman Darius Rucker sounded remarkably timeless, delivering “Hold My Hand” with the same warmth fans remember from decades ago. The performance didn’t rely on extravagant visuals, instead letting the band’s infectious energy carry the moment.
9. Riley Green, “Worst Day”
Riley Green once again proved why he remains one of country music’s standout names today. Performing his hit “Worst Day,” Green delivered a smooth and confident set that felt both effortless and authentic. His cowboy hat also became a memorable part of the performance, marking his AMAs debut in unmistakable style.
10. Billy Idol, “Eyes Without a Face” / “Dancing With Myself”
Alongside longtime collaborator and guitarist Steve Stevens, Billy Idol closed out the night with a mesmerizing medley of “Eyes Without a Face” and “Dancing With Myself.” The English rock legend demonstrated why his influence has endured across a career spanning more than five decades. Fittingly, Idol was also honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award during the ceremony.
Each and every 2026 AMAs performance showcased exactly why the ceremony remains one of music’s biggest celebrations. And in the end, these stages felt uniquely tailored to each performer.
Read: List of American Music Award Winners 2026: BTS, KATSEYE Win Triple Crowns
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