By Karina Patel, Courier Features Editor

The AMA’s premiered once again with more emotion than ever! On November 20, 2016, Gigi Hadid and Jay Pharaoh co-hosted the 44th Annual American Music Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California. 44amaWith the show-stopping performances from John Legend, Fifth Harmony, and Lady Gaga, plus the heartfelt speeches for Ariana Grande and Selena Gomez, the show was definitely successful.  

The show became a little more sentimental when Prince’s sister, Tyka Nelson, took the stage to accept an award for “Best Soundtrack” on behalf of her late brother. We can surely say that there was not one dry eye in the audience after her emotional speech.

“Prince defied the odds, a Black teen from Minneapolis with a goal to electrify the world. He had the courage to be different,” Nelson said. “With his vision and god-given talent, he is still one of the world’s most respected and loved artists.”

Although the performances and speeches were truly touching, it was definitely a competitive night. Drake left with a record broken with 13 nominations and won Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Album, not to mention his new Apple commercial which featured him lip-syncing to a Taylor Swift song.

Now let us not forget Gigi Hadid–not only did she look amazing on the red carpet, her impression of Melania Trump was what made her the most memorable experience that night, not to mention her countless outfit changes!

The 44th annual AMA’s were truly amazing, and we can’t wait for what’s in store for 2017!