But Swift didn't leave empty-handed: She won top female artist and top selling album for "reputation."She said that before she created "reputation" she "felt really misunderstood by a lot of people."

"Thank you for making me feel understood again," Swift said to her fans.

Luis Fonsi was passionate when he picked up top Hot 100 song for "Despacito," the biggest hit of the last year which also included Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber.

"Thank you, guys, so much for embracing a mostly Spanish song," he said. "This goes out to my Latino brothers, the immigrants ... to all of those when they say 'Speak English,' this goes out to you."

Before presenting the award to Fonsi, the Chainsmokers and Halsey remembered Avicii, the DJ-producer who died last month at age 28. The Chainsmokers also paid tribute to Avicii when the duo won top dance/electronic artist.

"We want to dedicate this award to Avicii," said Andrew Taggart, adding that the Swedish musician "inspired all of us, influenced our music." "He will be missed," Taggart said. "I hope you found peace."

Camila Cabello won the chart achievement award and also won over the crowd with her performance of "Havana," as audience members Mila Kunis and Rebel Wilson sang along and danced happily.

Cabello's former Fifth harmony bandmate, Normani, was fierce as she performed "Love Lies" alongside Khalid; Grande followed Clarkson's emotional words with an energetic performance of "No Tears Left to Cry"; and John Legend's performance ended with a photo of his new baby boy displayed on the large screens at the arena.

Salt-N-Pepa closed the show with high-energy, performing the hits "Push It" and "Whatta Man" alongside R&B group En Vogue and even Clarkson.

ASSOCIATED PRESS