British rock icon Billy Idol has been honoured with a lifetime achievement award at the American Music Awards (AMAs), celebrating a 50-year music career he once believed would last only six months.
The 70-year-old 'Rebel Yell' singer received the accolade to a standing ovation at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Monday night, closing the ceremony with renditions of 'Eyes Without a Face' and his breakthrough solo hit 'Dancing with Myself'.
Accepting the award, Idol thanked his fans and reflected on his punk rock beginnings in 1976, saying: 'We thought it may only last about six months, let alone 50 years.' He encouraged aspiring artists to 'pick an instrument, find out who you are and be it.'
Elsewhere at the 52nd annual awards, South Korean boy band BTS won Artist of the Year, beating Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Lady Gaga, Harry Styles, and Justin Bieber. BTS also secured the Song of the Summer award for their track 'Swim.'
Song of the Year went to Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami for 'Golden,' while the Black Eyed Peas won Best Throwback Song for 'Rock That Body.' Girl group Katseye was named New Artist of the Year, and Karol G received the International Artist of Excellence award.
The ceremony, hosted by Queen Latifah, featured performances from the Pussycat Dolls, New Kids on the Block, and Keith Urban. Darius Rucker received the Veterans Voice Award for his advocacy for military personnel.
