Taylor Swift opened the American Music Awards (AMAs) with her first awards show performance in nearly three years before closing in on a record held by Whitney Houston.
The 28-year-old – who this week broke her long silence on political matters to reveal she would be voting for the Democrats in the US’ upcoming midterm elections – treated fans to a rendition of I Did Something Bad to kick off the night.
Swift wore a long-sleeved sparkly leotard and performed in front of a giant snake while surrounded by backing dancers.
No, @taylorswift13, you did something LEGENDARY. #TaylorSwiftAMAs pic.twitter.com/PG0ef2qcnp
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) October 10, 2018
Shortly after her performance during Tuesday’s ceremony in Los Angeles, she won the prize for tour of the year, meaning she is now just two away from breaking Houston’s record for most AMAs won by a female.
Swift could achieve the feat later in the evening – she is also up for female artist, album and the coveted artist of the year.
Cardi B won the first award of the AMAs, seeing off competition from Drake and Post Malone for favourite rap artist.
The 25-year-old took to the stage and thanked her daughter, Kulture, her first child with Migos rapper husband Offset.
I'm just so happy for @IamCardiB 😭😭😭 #AMAs pic.twitter.com/2rZuoQQMzd
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) October 10, 2018
Cardi B said that after giving birth in July, she was determined to prove her career was not over.
The second award of the night, favourite male artist in the pop/rock category, went to Post Malone.
The AMAs, founded in 1973, are touted as the world’s largest fan-voted awards show and were held at the Microsoft Theatre.