In a stunning homage to the past, K-Pop sensation Stray Kids brought nostalgia to the forefront at the American Music Awards (AMAs) 50th anniversary celebration by performing *NSYNC’s iconic hit “Bye Bye Bye,” skillfully blending it with their own single “Chk Chk Boom.” The performance marked a significant moment, nearly 25 years after *NSYNC first captivated audiences with their puppet-inspired rendition at the 2000 AMAs.
The event kicked off with *NSYNC members Lance Bass and JC Chasez introducing Stray Kids, with Bass noting the AMAs’ longstanding history that has seen various boy bands rise to fame. A retrospective video celebrated boy band culture, showcasing notable groups such as BTS, the Backstreet Boys, New Edition, and One Direction as they accepted their awards over the years.
Stray Kids took to the stage in a theatrical fashion, mimicking *NSYNC’s original puppet-inspired presentation. As the performance unfolded, the group executed the choreography for “Bye Bye Bye,” which has recently gained renewed popularity thanks to its feature in the “Deadpool” franchise. The group then seamlessly transitioned into “Chk Chk Boom,” incorporating *NSYNC elements throughout their vibrant performance.
In an interview with Billboard, the members of Stray Kids expressed their excitement about collaborating with *NSYNC for the performance, describing it as a “memorable” and “special” experience that highlighted their respect for the legendary boy band.
The evening was filled with heartfelt tributes to previous AMAs winners and a variety of standout performances. Jennifer Hudson graced the stage in a custom black La Roxx gown, inspired by Whitney Houston’s iconic 1994 AMAs appearance, and delivered a powerful medley featuring “I Loves You, Porgy,” “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” and “I Have Nothing.”
Country artist Kane Brown paid tribute to Alan Jackson with a cover of “Drive (For Daddy Gene)” before diving into his new collaboration with Marshmello, “Miles on It.” London-born artist RAYE honored the legacy of James Brown, who received the American Music Award of Merit.
Despite recent legal tensions, members of the St. Lunatics reunited for their first performance in years, as Nelly invited fellow St. Louis artists J-Kwon and Chingy to join him for a nostalgic medley of their early 2000s club hits, including J-Kwon’s revitalized success with “Tipsy.”
As for *NSYNC’s future, Joey Fatone shared with PEOPLE that while a reunion has not been actively discussed, he remains hopeful. “Hopefully at some point when [Justin] is done with his tour, we’ll sit down and go, ‘What are we doing?’ and figure it out. I would love to have that conversation, whether yes or no — I just want to know,” he stated.
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