Chris Brown donned a suit and tie, Macklemore came in a royal blue Sgt. Pepper’s jacket and fur hat, and Bruno Mars channeled the Temptations, wearing the same glittery suit as his dancers. Bottom line, everyone was looking sharp for their performances at the 2013 Billboard Music Awards. Justin Bieber touched down in a space pod, while his on-off girlfriend Selena Gomez went back to the past sporting Cleopatra-inspired attire and matching dance routine.
This was pop’s night alright. Rihanna was an early winner sweeping the entire R&B category’s three awards with her 2012 pop crossover LP Unapologetic. Taylor Swift, who also performed, won for Top Billboard 200 Album for her latest Red, plus took home seven other trophies. Gotye deservedly won four awards for his infectious “Somebody That I Used To Know” hit, but got beat out by Brit boy band sensation One Direction for Top New Artist. The Queen of Pop, Madonna, was honored as the Top Touring Artist and gave speech shouting out her dancers and four kids.
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis “Thrift Shop”
Chris Brown “Fine China”
Bruno Mars “Treasure”
Justin Bieber “Take You”
Selena Gomez “Come & Get It”
Taylor Swift “22”