Kanye West comes out on top in American Music Awards

Chris Brown may have been the big winner, but it was Kanye West’s night at the American Music Awards.

Instead of his typical tantrum – a trend West started four years ago when he lost the favourite new artist prize – the rapper claimed two trophies yesterday and called on his colleagues to raise their game.

“It’s our responsibility as musicians to keep pushing each other,” West said. “We will be the new Beatles, the new Hendrix. I want to be Elvis.”

West was named favourite male rap/hip-hop artist and his CD 'Graduation' won favourite rap/hip-hop album.

Brown took the night’s top honours – artist of the year – as well as favourite male artist in both the pop/rock and soul/R&B categories.

“I was shocked,” the 19-year-old said backstage. “I’m so thankful and grateful. I thought Coldplay should have won the award, but I’ll take it.”

Brown’s friend Rihanna – who wore chains and a leather corset to perform her love ballad “Rehab” – was named favourite female artist in both the pop/rock and soul/R&B categories.

Alicia Keys was another double winner: Her CD, 'As I Am', was both pop/rock and soul/R&B album winner.

The American Music Awards traditionally centres on its performances, and yesterday was no exception. The show featured high-energy sets from Miley Cyrus, Ne-Yo and Beyonce, although a pair of lacklustre medleys opened the program at the Nokia Theatre.

Pink’s new track, “Sober”, was awkwardly introduced by slurring rocker Scott Weiland, formerly of the Stone Temple Pilots. Also performing were The Jonas Brothers, the Pussycat Dolls, Coldplay and Annie Lennox, who won the Award of Merit.