American Music Awards: GaGa on fire, Swift dominates and Jackson honored

The 2009 American Music Awards not only attracted over 14 million viewers, it gave way to a plethora of gossip and memories this year. Since there was an equal amount of shocking and controversial moments ratio to the historical and pleasant, I've broken up the article into two pieces; one for each side. Check out American Music Awards: Wardrobe malfunction, outrage and controversy.

Lady Gaga, 23, provided an amazing performance with the usual costumes, shattering glass and playing a piano that was lit on fire. She has recently been asked to play for the Queen at the Royal Variety Performance in December, and is an unusual pick since traditional artists featured include Nat King Cole and Bruce Forsyth. Gaga and Rihanna had the most sexy performances, as well as out-there wardrobes, of the evening.

The King of Pop was honored with two AMA's, Favourite Soul/R&B Male and Favourite Pop/Rock Male. His Number One album won the Favourite Pop and Favourite Soul/R&B Album awards. These awards were accepted by Jermaine Jackson and his three sons. Janet Jackson kicked off the awards show with a live performance of some of her classics, such as "Control" and "What Have You Done For Me Lately". This is one performance her brother would be proud of, a close second to the her last performance with Michael at the 2009 VMA's. 

Whitney Houston provided a must-see performance of "I Didn't Know My Own Strength" and was presented the International Artist Award by Samuel L. Jackson. This performance was definitely one of the most memorable parts of the night.

Speaking of memorable, Taylor Swift swept the awards again with a record of 5 AMA's, including Artist of the Year and Favorite Country Album. She has a had a year full of awards, thanks in part from Kanye West's shenanigans and her charming country/pop hits.

Other performers included Mary J. Blige, Black Eyed Peas, Shakira, Carrie Underwood, Eminem and 50 Cent.