BTS and Sabrina Carpenter Dominate 2026 American Music Awards as KATSEYE Breaks Through

The 2026 American Music Awards delivered major surprises, breakout victories, and global fan-driven moments as BTS, Sabrina Carpenter, and KATSEYE emerged among the night’s biggest winners. From Artist of the Year to viral songs and blockbuster tours, this year’s AMAs reflected the growing influence of global pop, K-pop, and streaming culture across the music industry.

BTS Wins Artist of the Year

In one of the 2026 AMAs’ night’s most talked-about moments, BTS secured the coveted Artist of the Year award, beating major global stars including Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, and Harry Styles.

The group also won Song of the Summer for “SWIM,” further proving their continued worldwide dominance even amid solo projects and evolving careers.

Meanwhile, rising global act KATSEYE had a breakout night, winning New Artist of the Year and Best Music Video for “Gnarly.” Their rapid rise has become one of the biggest stories in pop music this year.

Sabrina Carpenter Scores Album of the Year

Sabrina Carpenter added another major milestone to her career by taking home Album of the Year for Man’s Best Friend. The singer beat a competitive lineup that included projects from Cardi B, Lady Gaga, and Taylor Swift.

The 2026 AMAs win cement Sabrina Carpenter’s status as one of the defining pop stars of 2026 after a year filled with chart success and sold-out performances.

Another standout moment came from HUNTR/X members EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, whose track “Golden” won both Song of the Year and Best Vocal Performance.

 

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Shakira and Benson Boone Shine in Tour Categories

Touring achievements also took center stage at the 2026 AMAs. Shakira won Tour of the Year for her massively successful “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour,” outperforming tours by Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and Lady Gaga.

Breakout Tour of the Year went to Benson Boone for the “American Heart World Tour,” marking another major achievement for the fast-rising performer.

Viral Songs and Streaming Hits Dominate

This year’s awards heavily reflected social media and streaming-driven music trends. Tyla won Social Song of the Year for “CHANEL,” while PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson earned Collaboration of the Year for “Stateside.”

Zara Larsson also claimed Breakthrough Album of the Year for Midnight Sun, continuing her successful comeback year.

One nostalgic surprise came in the newly introduced Best Throwback Song category, where Black Eyed Peas won for their classic hit “Rock That Body.”

Full List Reflects Global Music Evolution

The 2026 American Music Awards highlighted how global fandoms, streaming platforms, and viral culture continue to reshape the music industry. K-pop acts, crossover collaborations, and social media-fueled hits dominated categories once largely controlled by traditional pop stars.

With artists from multiple countries and genres winning major awards, the 2026 AMAs showcased a music landscape that is more international and digitally connected than ever before.