By Armando Martinez
The 2017 Billboard Music Awards was held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 21, 2017. Rapper/actor Ludacris co hosted the special night with Disney star Vanessa Hudgens. It was a long three-hour plus show, composed with somewhat live performances by Nicki Minaj, Miley Cyrus, The Chainsmokers, Lorde, and more. The night also included some meaningful tributes and remembrances. Here are some of the night’s unforgettable moments.
Cher Makes us “Believe” Age is Just A Number: The 71-year old diva was awarded with the Billboard Icon Award. Cher came out to sing and parade her way through two of her classics, “Believe” and “If I Could Turn Back Time.” For her “Believe” performance she wore a blonde wig, and a bunch of string, while for “If I Could Turn Back Time,” Cher’s look was a throwback to her 1980s music video outfit with a sheer bodysuit. Cher said modestly “I wanted to do what I do since I was four years old and I’ve been doing it for 53 years,” as she accepted her award, claiming that she’s been lucky.
Drake Makes History: Drake owned the night by winning 13 awards including top artist, surpassing singer Adele’s 12 trophies for the most wins in one night. He performed his single “Gyalchester” in the fountain at the Bellagio Resort and Casino complete with fireworks. During his acceptance speech for his Top 200 album win, Drake flirted a bit with the awards show co-host, Vanessa Hudgens by telling her how great she looked and also showed some love to the other co-host, Ludacris.
Nicki Minaj’s Opening Performace: Minaj kicked things off with a 9-minute opening medley. She was accompanied on stage by singer Jason Derulo, DJ David Guetta, and rapper Lil Wayne. Nicki opted to wear a black dominatrix ensemble, while managing to self-censor her explicit rhymes for the ABC audience.
Celine’s Heart Will Go On: To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the the blockbuster film Titanic, Celine Dion belted out the film’s Oscar-winning theme song “My Heart Will Go On.” As scenes from the iconic movie played on the big screen behind her, Dion donned a Stephane Rolland haute couture gown with enormous sleeves.
BTS: Seven-member K-pop boy band, full name Bangtan Sonyeondan, blew up social media during the course of the evening. This was their first appearance at a U.S. awards show, and they handily took home the award for Top Social Artist. BTS even made some new fans, during the process, which included pop star Hasley.
K-pop group, BTS, Won Top Social Artist at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards.
