Whitney Houston, Chester Bennington honoured and other best moments from American Music Awards 2017

American Music Awards 2017 was a medley of stars bringing in their best for the 45th annual music awards.

The show hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross witnessed scores of performances, heartfelt speeches and musical odes to those the music industry lost in the following year.

Jamie Foxx anddaughter opened the night by talking about the tragic events of the year, including shootings, hate crimes and natural disasters. He said, "We needed the power of music to help us escape the news of the day we needed the power of music to help us heal." He called it the year that"tested our faith."

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Pink and Kelly Clarkson sang together for the first time, performing their version of the popular song "Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M. They got a standing ovation for the performance.

Tracee Ellis Ross took the stage in a large ruffled bronze gown. She said it was a special night for her as her mother, Diana Ross was getting a lifetime achievement award. She said,"We are the first ever mother and daughter who have ever hosted the American Music Awards. She did it twice, but there's always next year."

She also spoke about how the night would celebrate Kelly Clarkson, as she sang "A Moment Like This."

She introduced Viola Davis to the stage to honourthe 25th anniversary of the film "The Bodyguard," starring Whitney Houston. Davis said, "The movie has become iconic, thanks to its soundtrack, the best-selling movie soundtrack of all time. What a voice Whitney had, what an artist."Davis pointed out that Houston had the most AMAs of any female artist in history: 21.

Houston's family members were at the AMAs to honour the late singer. Davis then introduced singer Christina Aguilera, who sang one of Houston's most famous songs, "I Will Always Love You." Aguilera wore ablack dress as she paid tribute to Houston. Later, she sang "I Have Nothing" as a popular scene from "The Bodyguard" played behind her making the audience teary-eyed. Then Aguilera performed "I'm Every Woman." as she said to the crowd: "Come on. This is a Whitney celebration."

Chadwick Boseman presented the award for pop rock duo or group, which went to Imagine Dragons. Frontman Dan Reynolds of Imagine Dragons said, "This is a country that I know, which is one of powerful women, talking about our women, talking about empowering our LGBTQ youth. May we continue to progress as a nation toward one of love, of equality, no divide."

Ciara presented the award for rap or hip-hop song, which went to DJ Khaled for his star-studded song, "I'm the One." While performing, he said, "I want to thank my son, the executive producer." Khaled thanked his collaborators and then told his fans, "I'm back in the studio, too. God is the greatest. Fan love, we did it."

Taylor Swift sent a video message tosingerDiana Ross ahead of lifetime achievement award, saying, "You have paved the way for everyone who does what we do now, including me, so thank you."

Julia Michaels introduced Selena Gomez to the stage to sing "Wolves." She said,"If you looked up bravery in the dictionary, you would find this next performer's name. I'm so grateful I get to call this beautiful person my friend."

Kathryn Hahn and Justin Hartley presented favourite country male artistto Keith Urban. He got a surprise when he hit the stage as he also won best country song for "Blue Ain't Your Color" and best country album for "Ripcord." He gave a special shoutout to his wife, Nicole Kidman, who was in the audience.

The stars of "Riverdale" presented favourite EDM artist, which went to the Chainsmokers.

Jenna Dewan Tatum and Billy Eichner presented adult contemporary artist, which went to Shawn Mendes.

Heidi Klum introduced Lady Gaga's performance"The Cure." Gaga performed from Washington, D.C., playing a clear piano and wore a partial mask over one eye. She got up from her piano to sing and dance on top a galactic-themed stage. When she received the award for the pop-rock female artist, Gaga from Washington said, "Just remember, if you feel different or you feel not understood, don't you dare give up on who you are."

Nick Cannon presented new artist of the year, which went to former One Direction member Niall Horan.

Laura Marano and Patrick Schwarzenegger presented collaboration of the year, which went to Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber for "Despacito." Fonsi dedicated his award to the people of Puerto Rico.

Daymond John, Kevin O'Leary and Mark Cuban presented favourite alternative artist, which went to Linkin Park. Member of the group Mike Shinoda talked about late frontman Chester Bennington and said, "We want to dedicate this award to him, to his memory, to his talent, his sense of humour and to his joy. Remember you guys, all of you tonight, whether you're a fan or an artist: Take a moment to appreciate what you've got and make Chester proud."

The Chainsmokers introduced South Korean boy band BTS. Though the members sang in Korean, many fans in the audience sang along.

Jared Leto took the stage and said, "In challenging times like these we need artists more than ever. Creative revolutionaries remind us of the possibilities of life," as he presented artist of the year. Bruno Mars won the award and though not at the show, he sent a video of his acceptance speech and said he was "a million miles away." He continued and said, "Please forgive me. We will be back together very shortly."

Following that, former President Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama sent a congratulatory video message to Diana Ross. Mrs Obama said,"Her artistry resonates with everyone ad today her voice is still as pure, her beauty is undeniable and her showmanship is on point."

Singer Evan Ross kicked off a tribute to his mother, Diana Ross.

"What do you get when you cross a chart-topping singer, trailblazing style icon, record-breaking pioneer international superstar and an all-around boss? Everybody you get my mom, Miss Diana Ross," Evan said.

Diana Ross accepted the award and said, "This is all about love. This says it all. This is my family. And I'm sending love out there to all of you each and every one of you, our global family … I feel so humbled by this. I love you so very much."