AMAs red carpet 2025 & reality check: Do artists really get paid to perform or win?

The 2025 American Music Awards (AMAs) are underway at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, with Jennifer Lopez as the evening’s host. Kendrick Lamar leads this year’s nominations with ten nods. Post Malone follows with eight, while Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, and Shaboozey have seven each. Taylor Swift, despite being nominated for six awards, is not attending.

Live performances are lighting up the night, with appearances from Benson Boone, Gwen Stefani, Janet Jackson, and Rod Stewart.

But as millions watch the star-studded show unfold, one question continues to come up: Do artists get paid to win or perform at the AMAs?

No prize money for winners

Winning an AMA is a big honor. It boosts an artist’s fame, album sales, streams, and even concert ticket demand. It also helps with endorsements and collaborations. But there's no cash prize for the winners. Artists get a trophy and fan-voted recognition, but not a check.

This isn't just true for the AMAs. Other top award shows, like the Grammys and MTV VMAs, follow the same rule. They don’t offer prize money for winners. The reward is exposure and industry respect.

What about performers?

Do the performers at the AMAs get paid? Not really.

Most artists don’t earn a large paycheck for taking the stage. Some might receive help with production or travel costs, but big payments are rare. Still, many performers say the exposure is worth it. Performing at the AMAs puts them in front of millions of viewers worldwide.

That kind of attention can lead to increased music sales, streaming numbers, and a spike in social media followers. For many, that’s more valuable than a one-time fee.

Why do artists still show up?

Artists often use the AMAs to debut new songs, show off creative performances, or simply remind fans they’re still here. A memorable performance can go viral, trend online, and grab headlines long after the night ends.

So while the AMAs don’t offer direct payment, they give something more powerful: visibility, fame, and momentum. In today’s music world, that’s the currency that counts.