Blast from the past at Billboard Awards

(Reuters)
(Reuters)

The Billboard Music Awards went old school in Las Vegas on Monday (NZ time), with performances from Madonna, Celine Dion and Britney Spears.

Britney Spears opened the show by showing a massive guitar just how much she loves rock 'n' roll.

And there was love for The Weeknd too, who was nominated 19 times. He won eight awards, including Top HOT 100 Artist and Top R&B Artist.

But Adele took out the big one -- among others, she scored Top Artist. She also unveiled her new music video.

Justin Bieber went home with Best Male Artist and Top Social Media Artist.

Celine Dion was given the Icon Award. She lost her husband and brother in January, but her son stood by her side as she accepted the honour.

Rihanna got the Chart Achievement Award and despite being nominated eight times, Taylor Swift only went home with Top Touring Artist.

The awards ended with a tribute to Prince performed by Madonna and Stevie Wonder.

The public actually petitioned to stop Madonna being the main tribute artist because they thought she wasn't worthy.

Newshub.