Billboard Music Awards 2016

Sunday night, the Billboard Music Awards featured some of the hottest current artists performing renditions of their biggest hits, and all country lovers had their eyes fixed on the new country power couple: Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani. Their first single together, and Gwen’s first country song ever, was first performed on NBC’s The Voice, but America couldn’t get enough of the new sweethearts as they performed the single again at the awards show on May 22nd. Titled “Go Ahead and Break my Heart”, the song was co-written by both artists and is featured on Shelton’s new album “If I’m Honest”, released May 20th. In an awards show that’s known to cast a blind eye towards country music, we think it’s safe to say Blake and Gwen represented the genre perfectly.

Blake and Gwen’s performance wasn’t the only interesting performance to occur at BBMAs. Britney Spears opened the show with an electrifying performance of many of her hit singles, including “Womanizer” and “Toxic.” Later in the show, Celine Dion accepted the Billboard Icon Award after covering Queen’s “The Show Must Go On,” in honor of her late husband. Yet, perhaps the most triumphant performance was that of Kesha covering “It Ain’t Me Babe” by Bob Dylan, a performance that was initially blocked by Dr. Luke’s record label. Kesha and Dr. Luke are currently in a legal battle over her music and ability to record without Dr. Luke producing her music. The artist with the most awards for the night was The Weeknd, taking home an incredible eight golden microphones. The big winner of the night, however, was Adele, who won Top Artist among many other awards. To wrap up the ceremony, Madonna brought out Stevie Wonder to help her perform “Purple Rain” as a tribute to Prince, a fitting conclusion for an awards show whose artists have undeniably been inspired by the legendary singer.