Justin Bieber stunned the American Music Awards and his mother in Los Angeles on Sunday night when he was named Artist of the Year.
The Baby hitmaker had already claimed the night's first trophy for Favourite Pop/Rock Male Artist and the Favorite Pop/Rock Album prize when his name was called as will.i.am presented the ceremony's last category.
Dragging his reluctant mum Pattie Mallette up onstage with him, the pop superstar said, "This is my mom, she's little but she's beautiful... I wanna thank you for just always believing in me... This is amazing."
Justin Bieber danced in some red harem pants
He also addressed the drama swirling around his personal life amid reports he and longtime girlfriend Selena Gomez have split up, telling fans, "As long as you guys keep believing in me... I wanna always make you proud."
It was a great night for Bieber's musical family too - his mentor Usher and protege Carly Rae Jepsen both performed and took home awards.
Justin Bieber and his mum Pattie Mallette
Usher was named Favourite Soul/R&B Male Artist and Jepsen beat One Direction to score the New Artist prize.
Other performance highlights came from The Wanted, Kelly Clarkson, Ke$ha, No Doubt, Christina Aguilera, Taylor Swift and Pink, who recreated her dramatic performance dance video for Try onstage at the Nokia Theatre, while Psy closed the show with his international smash hit Gangnam Style - and a special guest.
American Music Awards
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(01 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Gwen Stefani of No Doubt attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Justin Bieber, Jenny McCarthy(02 of126)
Justin Bieber is smothered in kisses by presenter Jenny McCarthy as he accepts the award for favorite album - pop/rock for Believe at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber(03 of126)
Justin Bieber performs at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber(04 of126)
Justin Bieber performs at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber(05 of126)
Justin Bieber performs at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by John Shearer/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
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Justin Bieber performs at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
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Justin Bieber performs at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber(08 of126)
Justin Bieber performs at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj(09 of126)
Justin Bieber, right, and Nicki Minaj perform at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber, Nicki Minaj(10 of126)
Justin Bieber, right, and Nicki Minaj perform at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
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Justin Bieber performs at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber(12 of126)
Justin Bieber performs at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by John Shearer/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber, Jenny McCarthy(13 of126)
Justin Bieber is smothered in kisses by presenter Jenny McCarthy as he accepts the award for favorite album - pop/rock for Believe at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by John Shearer/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber, Jenny McCarthy(14 of126)
Justin Bieber is smothered in kisses by presenter Jenny McCarthy as he accepts the award for favorite album - pop/rock for Believe at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber, Jenny McCarthy(15 of126)
Justin Bieber is smothered in kisses by presenter Jenny McCarthy as he accepts the award for favorite album - pop/rock for Believe at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by John Shearer/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber(16 of126)
Justin Bieber accepts the award for favorite album - pop/rock for Believe at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by John Shearer/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber, Pattie Malette(17 of126)
Justin Bieber brings his mom Pattie Malette on stage as he accepts the award for artist of the year at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by John Shearer/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber, will.i.am(18 of126)
Justin Bieber accepts the award for artist of the year from presenter will.i.am at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber, Pattie Malette(19 of126)
Justin Bieber accepts the award for artist of the year as his mom Pattie Malette looks on at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(20 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber accepts the Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist award onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(21 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber (R) and mother Pattie Malette attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(22 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(23 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(24 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(25 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(26 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(27 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(28 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(29 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber (R) and mother Pattie Malette attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(30 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(31 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(32 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(33 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(34 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber accepts the Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist award onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(35 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber accepts the award for Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(36 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber (R) and mother Pattie Malette attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(37 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(38 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber (shoe detail) attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(39 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber (R) and mother Pattie Malette attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(40 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber (R) and mother Pattie Malette attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
Justin Bieber, Pattie Mallette(41 of126)
Justin Bieber, right, kisses his mother Pattie Mallette as they arrive at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
Justin Bieber(42 of126)
Justin Bieber arrives at the 40th Anniversary American Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2012, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) (credit:AP)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(43 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Justin Bieber attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(44 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(45 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(46 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(47 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(48 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(49 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(50 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(51 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: (L-R) Singer Christina Aguilera and rapper Pitbull perform onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(52 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(53 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(54 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(55 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(56 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(57 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(58 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(59 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(60 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(61 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(62 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(63 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Nicki Minaj attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(64 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Nicki Minaj attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(65 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Nicki Minaj attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(66 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Nicki Minaj attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(67 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Rapper/singer Nicki Minaj accepts the award for Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Album onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(68 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Nicki Minaj attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(69 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Rapper/singer Nicki Minaj performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(70 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Nicki Minaj attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(71 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Rapper/singer Nicki Minaj performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(72 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Rapper/singer Nicki Minaj performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(73 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Rapper/singer Nicki Minaj performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(74 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Rapper Nicki Minaj attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(75 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Rapper Nicki Minaj attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(76 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Christina Aguilera performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(77 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Musicians Amy Heidemann and Nick Noonan of Karmin attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(78 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: (L-R) Singer Christina Aguilera and rapper Pitbull perform onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(79 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Sean Kingston (R) and mother Janice Turner attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(80 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Jason Derulo attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Press Room(81 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Carly Rae Jepsen poses in the press room at the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(82 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Jordin Sparks attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(83 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Eden Sher attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Press Room(84 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Jenny McCarthy poses in the press room at the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Press Room(85 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Jenny McCarthy poses in the press room at the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(86 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Gloria Estefan (L) and musician Emilio Estefan attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(87 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Carrie Underwood performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(88 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Carrie Underwood performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(89 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(90 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: (L-R) Musicians Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood of Lady Antebellum attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Press Room(91 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Carly Rae Jepsen poses in the press room at the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(92 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: (L-R) Musicians Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood of Lady Antebellum attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(93 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Eden Sher attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(94 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Gloria Estefan (L) and musician Emilio Estefan attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(95 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Grace Valerie attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(96 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Pink attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(97 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Ginnifer Goodwin attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(98 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Professional hockey player Mike Fisher and singer Carrie Underwood attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(99 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Kerry Washington attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(100 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Stacy Keibler attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(101 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Stacy Keibler attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(102 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Stacy Keibler attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(103 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Stacy Keibler attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(104 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Stacy Keibler attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(105 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Hayden Panettiere attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(106 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Hayden Panettiere attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(107 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Hayden Panettiere attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(108 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Elisha Cuthbert attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(109 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Actress Elisha Cuthbert attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(110 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singers Jordin Sparks (L) and Jason Derulo attend the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(111 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Recording artist J. Cole attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(112 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Muscian Taylor Swift attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(113 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Muscian Taylor Swift attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(114 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Muscian Taylor Swift attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(115 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Muscian Taylor Swift attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(116 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Taylor Swift performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(117 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Taylor Swift performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(118 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Taylor Swift performs onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(119 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Singer Taylor Swift attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(120 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Model Heidi Klum attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Show(121 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Presenter Heidi Klum speaks onstage during the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(122 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Model Heidi Klum attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(123 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Model Heidi Klum attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(124 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Model Heidi Klum attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(125 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Model Heidi Klum attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The 40th American Music Awards - Arrivals(126 of126)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: TV personality Heidi Klum attends the 40th American Music Awards held at Nokia Theatre L.A. Live on November 18, 2012 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images) (credit:Getty Images)
The South Korean pop sensation was joined onstage by MC Hammer for a mash-up of his catchy anthem and Too Legit to Quit.
Psy and dance music star David Guetta made history at the AMAs by winning the first ever New Media Award and Favorite Electronic Dance Music Artist honours, respectively.
There was also a tribute to the late Dick Clark, who created the American Music Awards. The music and TV mogul's longtime pal Stevie Wonder took to the stage to perform a three-song medley of hits as images of Clark were beamed onto a screen behind him.
The 2012 AMA winners are:
Favourite Pop/Rock Male Artist - Justin Bieber
Favourite Female Country Artist - Taylor Swift
New Media Award - Psy
Favourite Rap/Hip-Hop Album - Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded by Nicki Minaj
Favourite Alternative Rock Artist - Linkin Park
Favourite Soul/R&B Male Artist - Usher
Favourite Country Male Artist - Luke Bryan
New Artist of the Year - Carly Rae Jepsen
Favourite Country Band/Duo or Group - Lady Antebellum
Favourite Electronic Dance Music Artist - David Guetta
Favourite Pop/Rock Album - Believe by Justin Bieber
Favourite Rap/Hip-Hop Artist - Nicki Minaj
Favourite Country Album - Blown Away by Carrie Underwood
Artist of the Year - Justin Bieber.