Usher to Host and Perform at iHeartRadio Music Awards

Usher is pulling double duty at the 2021 iHeartRadio Music Awards, serving as the show’s host as well as performing, producers announced Tuesday.

In addition, Elton John will be presented with the iHeartRadio Icon Award by Lil Nas X and Coldplay’s Chris Martin. A special tribute performance in honor of John will also take place, aiming to honor his legacy as an artist, performer and philanthropist.

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Airing live May 27 from Los Angeles’ Dolby Theatre, the show is also set to feature performances from the Weeknd with Ariana Grande, Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak as Silk Sonic, Dan + Shay and Doja Cat, with more to be announced in the coming weeks. Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, Roddy Ricch, Twenty One Pilots and Megan Thee Stallion have also been announced as making appearances on the telecast.

“I’m excited to be hosting and performing during the 2021 iHeartRadio Music Awards,” Usher said in a statement. “This year’s show includes an incredible lineup of exceptionally talented artists. It’s going to be a great time!”

This year’s show marks the eighth installment of the iHeartRadio Music Awards, which celebrates the most-played and loved artists on iHeartRadio’s stations and app. Awards will be handed out in 36 categories, including song of the year, female artist of the year and male artist of the year.

Song of the year nominees include the Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights,” Post Malone’s “Circles,” Dua Lipa’s “Don’t Start Now,” DaBaby’s “Rockstar” featuring Roddy Ricch and Harry Styles’ “Watermelon Sugar.” Lipa, Megan Thee Stallion, Swift, Billie Eilish and Grande are up for female artist of the year, while Styles, Malone, Ricch, the Weeknd and Justin Bieber are nominated for male artist of the year. The awards lineup also includes a number of accolades chosen by fans, who can vote here.

The 2021 iHeartRadio Music Awards will air on Fox on May 27 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

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