Brooks Walks Away From Top Honor At American Music Awards

Country music star Garth Brooks was named artist of the year Monday at the American Music Awards, then left his trophy on the podium because he doesn’t believe in the title.

Brooks, saying there was no disrespect intended, told the audience he didn’t believe in the concept of an artist of the year, “so I’m going to leave it here.” He then walked away.

Brooks and the reunited Eagles each won three American Music Awards.

Brooks also won, for the fifth year in a row, favorite male country artist and favorite country album for “Hits.”

The Eagles won favorite pop rock album for “Hell Freezes Over,” favorite adult contemporary artist and favorite pop group trophies.

Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men and Pearl Jam were multiple winners as well.

Michael Jackson was named the top pop-rock male artist over Elton John and Seal. Jackson had previously had won 18 competitive or special American Music Awards between 1980 and 1993.

Carey claimed the favorite soul-R&B female artist and favorite pop-rock female artist, while Boyz II Men captured the soul-R&B album honor with “II” and the favorite soul-R&B group.

Pearl Jam won for the favorite heavy metal-hard rock act and favorite alternative group.

Alabama was once again the top country group, winning a 19th American Music Award.

Reba McEntire was named the top female country artist, her 13th American Music Award.