The Weeknd
The Weeknd and Dua Lipa were some of the top winners at the 2021 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Thursday night. The Weeknd’s hit “Blinding Lights” was named Song of the Year, while he was named Male Artist of the Year. Dua Lipa won for Female Artist of the Year. Best Duo/Group of the Year went to Dan + Shay. Best Collaboration was given to “Savage” (Remix) by Megan Thee Stallion featuring Beyoncé, Doja Cat was awarded Best New Pop Artist and Pop Album of the Year was given to Taylor Swift‘s folklore. Twenty One Pilots also won a pair of awards, as Alternative Rock Artist of the Year and for “Level of Concern” as Best Alternative Rock Song of the Year.
Of course, the evening was full of superstar performances. The Weeknd with special guest Ariana Grande opened the show with the first-ever performance together of their #1 hit “Save Your Tears.” Host of the 2021 iHeartRadio Music Awards, Usher hosted and jammed with other artists including LL Cool J, Elton John, Megan Thee Stallion, French Montana and twenty one pilots in ‘Club Ush’ – a nightclub built on the side of The Dolby Theatre stage. During the show, he also performed a medley of his own hits.
Chris Martin from Coldplay and Lil Nas X presented Elton John with the 2021 iHeartRadio Icon Award. Demi Lovato, Brandi Carlile and H.E.R. performed a medley tribute of Elton’s biggest songs including “Bennie and The Jets,” “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me” and “I’m Still Standing,” in honor of his 50-year career. Elton was honored for his “global impact on pop culture, longevity and continued relevance as a touring and radio force with a loyal fan base worldwide.”
Other performers included Doja Cat, Dan + Shay and Silk Sonic (aka Bruno Mars & Anderson .Paak).
