iHeartRadio Music Awards Recap

The iHeartRadio Music Awards slipped in just after the Oscars wrapped up awards season to honor the best in music. Hosted by LL Cool J, the 12th annual ceremony celebrated the best and brightest of 2024 while also teasing the next new bops to come in 2025.

Leading the charge was none other than Taylor Swift, who not only scooped up eight awards but also took home the coveted Artist of the Year trophy. Proving the Swifties are not to be messed with, she snagged all six of the audience-voted for awards, including Tour of the Century. Bringing a favorite Eras tour tradition with her, she debuted a recording of one of her surprise songs from the first night of her tour as well, filling the ears of the audience with an acoustic version of "mirrorball" from the album folklore.

Meanwhile, Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas were on top of the world as they were awarded Album of the Year for Hit Me Hard and Soft. This duo is like the musical equivalent of a perfectly blended milkshake: sweet, smooth, and unforgettable.

Not to be outdone, SZA, Benson Boone, Sabrina Carpenter, GloRilla, and Green Day also snatched up wins throughout the night, cementing their place as 2024's brightest stars. It's clear that 2024 was the year of diversity in music, with artists across all genres being celebrated in their own unique way.

And of course, no awards show would be complete without some serious honors. Mariah Carey took home the Icon Award (obviously, because she is THE icon), Lady Gaga snagged the Innovator Award (who else?), and Nelly earned the Landmark Award (we’re still feeling "Hot in Herre" vibes). And in a true feel-good moment, Gracie Abrams was crowned Breakthrough Artist of the Year, making her the one to watch as she heads into the spotlight. Not at all surprising considering her collaboration with Taylor Swift on “us,” her opening slot during the Eras tour, and the fact that she had two insanely viral TikTok trends from the same song.

But the night wasn’t all about the trophies. The show gave a heartfelt tribute to Los Angeles, raising funds for those affected by the wildfires earlier this year. Through FireAid, contributions poured in for those in need, proving that while the music industry loves to party, it also knows how to give back.

And if that wasn’t enough, the iHeartRadio Music Awards introduced five brand-new socially voted categories, including Favorite Soundtrack, Favorite Broadway Debut, and the Favorite K-pop Dance Challenge (because who doesn’t love a viral dance move, right?). It’s clear that iHeartRadio is keeping its finger on the pulse of what fans want, and fans definitely got what they came for this year.

From performances by Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, GloRilla, and Kenny Chesney to an unforgettable night of awards, music, and heart, the iHeartRadio Music Awards once again proved why it’s one of the biggest nights in music. Here's to 2025, because if it’s anything like this year, we’re in for some major hits and even bigger surprises!