Olivia Rodrigo Gave a Stellar Performance at The 2021 AMAs With Powerhouse ‘Traitor’

Olivia Rodrigo enraptured the audience at the 2021 AMAs, with her powerful musical performance of her current hit single, the breakup power ballad “Traitor.”

After being introduced by host Cardi B — who said Rodrigo helped her “get over all the heartbreaks that [she] had” —The teen pop sensation started off her song solo, strumming an acoustic guitar and crooning in the first verse and chorus. Later, she grabbed the mic and walked across the stage gracefully in her white dress, moving from one dreamy backdrop (an open door leading to a star-lit scene) to another (a field of flowers). She was later joined by her backing band, who amplified the song with a cello, keys, drums, and guitars.  By the time the performance hit its stride halfway through, the entire crowd at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles had their hands up in full sway.

The stage set up was beautiful, but Rodrigo’s vocal performance was serene and breath taking — from the tender opening notes to some massive belting toward the end. 

Rodrigo leads all nominees with seven total nods, including Artist, Female Pop Artist and New Artist of the Year; “Drivers License” is nominated for Favourite Trending Song, Music Video and Pop Song; and her LP ‘Sour’ is up for Favourite Pop Album.

Following Rodrigo in total nominations is the Weekend with six, while Bad Bunny, Doja Cat, and Giveon are all tied with five each.

“Traitor” is the fourth official single to be released from Sour, Rodrigo’s blockbuster debut LP, following the Hot 100 top 5 hits “Drivers License,” “Deja Vu” and “Good 4 U.” On the most recent Hot 100 (dated Nov. 20, 2021), “Traitor” ranked at No. 34, having previously reached as high as No. 9 on the chart.

The American Music Awards is produced by MRC Live & Alternative, which is owned by MRC. MRC and Penske Media are co-parent companies of Billboard.  

Watch Olivia Rodrigo’s performance at the 2021 AMAs below.

—Silviya Y