US star Cher has urged those with a dream to never give it up – “no matter what happens”.

Beyonce has called out “all the record labels, every radio station, every awards show” in the hope that they become “more open to the joy and liberation that comes from enjoying art with no preconceived notions”.

Sir Elton John said Lil Nas X has “balls of steel” as he praised the ground-breaking rapper at the iHeartRadio Music Awards. Sir Elton was being honoured with the icon award but used his speech to share his delight at seeing young artists emerge.

Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa and The Weeknd were among the winners at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, which included a performance from the newly married Ariana Grande.