The Black Stars Who Shined at the American Music Awards 50th Anniversary Special

Jennifer Hudson performed a moving tribute to 22-time AMA winner Whitney Houston singing “I Loves You, Porgy” and “I Will Always Love You.” She was joined by members of Houston’s original band, led by musical director Rickey Minor.

Gladys Knight, who performed on the first American Music Awards in 1974 and amassed seven AMAs, returned to the stage 50 years after her debut for an encore performance of her hit song “Midnight Train to Georgia.”

Chaka Khan closed out the show by performing her timeless anthem, “I’m Every Woman,” in celebration of 50 years of achievements by women in music.

Gracing the stage in a salmon pink suit, comedian and actor Cedric the Entertainer was there as one of the presenters of the night.

Drummer and singer Sheila E. performed alongside Chaka Khan to close out the show and brought the house down!

Along with Cedric the Entertainer, legendary actor Samuel L. Jackson also graced the AMAs stage as a presenter for the evening.

Serving timeless “gasms,” Smokey Robinson showed up in a suave, all-black floral suit as the host for the AMAs.

In celebration of the 20th anniversary celebration of “The Emancipation of Mimi,” 10-time AMA winner Mariah Carey performed a pair of hits including “Don’t Forget About Us” and “We Belong Together.”

Rapper Nelly paid tribute to hip-hop’s evolution by performing some of his greatest hits such as “Hot in Herre.”

Country star Kane Brown celebrated the legacy of country music with a performance of classic and current hits including “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” and “Miles On It.”

Nile Rodgers & CHIC lit up the crowd with their performance of their amazing hits such as “Le Freak” and “Get Lucky.”

Performing alongside Nelly, Chingy graced the AMAs stage performing “Right Thurr” as a part of an ode to hip-hop’s past, present and future.

Jordyn Woods dazzled in silver as a guest at the AMAs 50th Anniversary Special.

Performing alongside Nelly and Chingy, St. Lunatics member Muprhy Lee ignited the stage with his performance of “Wat da Hook Gon Be” during their ode to hip-hop.