Black Performers Shine at 2018 American Music Awards

WI Web Staff October 10, 2018

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Erica Campbell (L) and Tina Campbell of Mary Mary perform onstage the 2018 American Music Awards at Microsoft Theater on October 9, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Phillip Faraone/WireImage)

The American Music Awards turned out to be a big deal Tuesday night, packing the house with stellar performances from Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood to Jennifer Lopez and Cardi B.

But while it was Swift who took home the most awards (including Artist of the Year) and encouraged the audience to vote Democrat in the upcoming midterm elections, the night clearly belonged to the talented lineup of Black performers that included Mariah Carey, Ella Mai (“Boo’d Up”), DJ Khaled, Missy Elliott and Ciara, as well as an Aretha Franklin tribute led by fellow R&B legend Gladys Knight.

“Blackish” star Tracee Ellis Ross — who donned a series of outfits from black designers and danced to a medley of hits from Cardi B, Childish Gambino, Bruno Mars, CeCe Winans, Mary Mary and Beyoncé — hosted the live telecast for the second consecutive year.