Rock music offers many forms, but this year the American Music Awards (AMAs) recognized the top artists and songs for their unique take on the genre.
Taylor Swift had a remarkable night at the awards show, taking home wins for her re-recorded single Red and 10-minute short film video “All Too Well.” Her fans’ support meant so much to her – it filled her with joy, she said.
Red Hot Chili Peppers
At the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards, Red Hot Chili Peppers took home the Global Icon award and performed their hit single “Black Summer” as well as classic track “Can’t Stop.” Additionally, founding members Anthony Kiedis, Flea, Chad Smith and longtime guitarist John Fruscante delivered their first VMA performance in over two decades.
In 1983, Kiedis, Flea, guitarist Hillel Slovak and drummer Jack Irons formed The Chili Peppers in Los Angeles with Kiedis, Flea, lead guitarist Hillel Slovak and drummer Jack Irons. Their debut album The Chili Peppers (1984) produced several hits like “Spice Up Your Life,” but lead guitarist Hillel Slovak tragically passed away from drug addiction in 1988 due to an addiction that had plagued him since childhood.
Kiedis and Flea have remained with the group despite Slovak’s departure, being joined by various temporary musicians including Dave Navarro and Josh Klinghoffer until being reunited with guitarist John Fruscante in 2019.
RHCP had an eventful 2022, releasing two double albums and several singles. Their newest record, Return of the Dream Canteen (due out October 14), boasted an incredible 36 songs.
Highlight of RHCP’s career is the majestic single “Eddie,” a tribute to Eddie Van Halen that features guitarist John Frusciante’s masterful guitar solo. The song’s catchy chorus showcases their signature blend of old and new styles over time.
Another standout track on the album is “The Shape I’m Takin’,” a funk-infused dance beat topped off with splashes of synth and Frusciante’s heroic guitar solo. This song stands as one of RHCP’s most uplifting compositions ever recorded and easily one of their best tracks.
Other standout tracks on the album include dance-rock hit “These Are the Ways” and lilting ballad “Peace and Love,” both with plenty of space for Kiedis’ insightful lyrics to be heard.
The band’s most recent album, Unlimited Love, debuted at number one and went double platinum. Additionally, their cover of Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy” received critical acclaim, earning it a nomination for the Best Rock Song category at this year’s MTV VMAs.
Machine Gun Kelly
On Sunday night (November 20), Machine Gun Kelly, who earlier this week earned his first GRAMMY nomination, took home the award for favorite rock artist at the 2022 American Music Awards. Beating out legendary acts such as Imagine Dragons, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Lumineers to this honor meant more than anything else to him.
MGK donned a fitted purple suit covered in metal spikes, some reaching nearly one foot long! He paired the outfit with silver chain necklaces featuring large metal spikes and black stud boots. For further accessorization, MGK added earrings and bracelets with even more bling.
The 32-year-old “Emo Girl” singer made a fashion statement with his bold look, and he didn’t disappoint on the red carpet either! Wearing an identical purple blazer and dress pants, he turned heads as he walked down the carpet at Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday.
On his Instagram story, he told fans that his outfit was meant to draw attention to the fact that he had won an award for favorite rock artist. He then addressed some of his past critics, including those who said his music wasn’t rock enough for such recognition.
At the awards ceremony, MGK gave a speech on stage where he also joked about petitioning for a larger mic stand. Additionally, he questioned whether the moon landing actually occurred and defended his music against rock critics.
He was right to take on the rock community, as his latest album, Mainstream Sellout, has been nominated for both favorite rock artist and favorite rock album awards. But some people weren’t so pleased with MGK’s win; some took to Twitter to voice their displeasure.
One person wrote, “What an odd and pathetic person to win this award. He doesn’t deserve it.” Another added, “He’s not even a rocker; he’s just some rapper with bad lyrics – nothing more! Go away now!”
At this year’s event, other artists claimed coveted trophies: Taylor Swift was named Artist of the Year and Wizkid was named Favorite Afrobeats artist. Harry Styles, Dove Cameron and Anitta also took home hardware.
Ghost
At the 2022 Rock Music Awards, Swedish psychedelic rock/metal band Ghost made history when they took home the inaugural award for favorite rock album. Beating out records from Coldplay, Imagine Dragons and Machine Gun Kelly to win this fan-voted honor was their fifth album Impera.
In addition to their significant win, Ghost have also announced a first tour for 2023. It will include Amon Amarth as its opener and tickets for the 27-date run go on sale Friday, February 17th.
Ghost have been making waves in metal for the last ten years and are fast becoming one of the premier arena bands around. Their performance style stands out, from elaborate costumes and stunning sets to their captivating stage presence. Ghost continues to set standards when it comes to metal music performances.
They’ve become a global sensation, popularizing with younger audiences around the world. Forbes Magazine even featured them as one of the future powerhouses of arena metal scene, with an impressive list of tour dates scheduled for 2022.
Their latest album, Impera, is one of their most remarkable works. It boasts several songs that have been climbing the Billboard charts.
Their previous albums had been heavily influenced by Blue Oyster Cult, but Ghost has developed an entirely different sound that incorporates their passion for Satan and the supernatural. Their lyrics possess an unmistakably occult feel, while their music is dark and hypnotic.
Twelve years have passed since Opus Eponymous’ debut album was released and their fame has only grown. They have become a household name with intricate live shows that never fail to entertain.
In March 2022, The band released their latest album IMPERA. Recorded at Loma Vista Recordings with producer Klas Ahlund in Los Angeles, it features guest vocalists.
With rock radio #1s “Call Me Little Sunshine” and “Hunter’s Moon,” IMPERA is an album that’s sure to please your ears. A must-listen for fans of psychedelic rock and heavy metal alike.
Coldplay
Coldplay are a British rock band formed in London in 1996. Composed of singer/pianist Chris Martin, guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman and drummer Will Champion, they officially changed their name to Coldplay in 1998 and released their debut album Parachutes later that same year.
They have sold over 100 million albums worldwide, cementing themselves as one of the most successful rock acts of the 21st century. Furthermore, they are the sixth highest selling touring act in history and have received multiple awards for their accomplishments.
Their music has been described as a “fusion of pop, dance, R&B, hip-hop, alternative rock and electronica”, with influences from artists such as Prince and David Bowie. Beyonce, Gwyneth Paltrow and Noel Gallagher have covered their songs.
The band’s first three albums have achieved multi-platinum status and produced numerous hits. A Head Full of Dreams, their most recent offering, debuted at number one on the UK LP chart. Currently they are touring worldwide to promote their ninth studio album Music of the Spheres.
Since their founding, They’ve remained busy performing live and recording new material. They’ve toured worldwide and gained notoriety for their energetic performances and captivating stage shows. Furthermore, they are known for their charitable contributions to numerous causes.
On their latest LP, A Head Full of Dreams, the band has made it a priority to include songs that promote positive social change and awareness. They have used their platform to address pressing global issues such as climate change, AIDS and animal cruelty while supporting Meat Free Monday – an initiative designed to promote meat-free days.
Coldplay have promised to reduce direct emissions by 50% compared to their previous tour, helping reduce global warming and protect the environment.
They’ve also announced they plan to release a new single in March 2022 entitled ‘Higher Power’, which will be included on their upcoming album. It is anticipated to be the group’s best-selling single ever.
Coldplay have earned numerous accolades throughout their career, such as six Brit Awards and a Grammy Award for Record of the Year and Best Music Video. Furthermore, they are the highest-selling group in the UK with over 100 million albums sold worldwide.