Nicki Minaj, Beyoncé and Rihanna were rewarded for their hard work in 2010-11. The top ladies of hip-hop and R&B won big at the 2011 American Music Awards and Nicki Minaj led the way.
The bodacious rap star opened the show with David Guetta on a set that was surrounded by dozens of speakers. Nicki Minaj was dressed as a space-age boom box while performing “Turn Me On” and Super Bass.”
Beyoncé, who was not in attendance, won the award for Soul/R&B female of the year; and Rihanna’s Loud won Soul/R&B album of the year.
Chris Brown also made a big impression during the ceremony. He performed the mellow “All Back” and closed his set by channeling Michael Jackson on the techno soul “Say It.”
Drake also hit the stage to perform his hit single, “Headlines.”
Other notable winners included Usher (Soul/R&B Male); Bruno Mars (Pop/Rock); and Adele (Pop Rock Album). –amir shaw
Check out exclusive photos from the event.
