The 2026 Billboard Women in Music Awards arrived in Los Angeles like a celebration wrapped in sound—bold, emotional, and impossible to ignore. Hosted by the ever-dynamic Keke Palmer, the evening balanced electrifying performances with well-deserved recognition for the artists shaping today’s music landscape.
Beyond the stage lights, the night honored excellence at every level. HUNTR/X claimed the prestigious Women of the Year award, Teyana Taylor was celebrated with the Visionary Award, and Tate McRae earned the title of Hitmaker—a trio of honors that perfectly reflected the diversity and power of the current music scene.
But the heartbeat of the night? Eight unforgettable performances.
The 8 Standout Performances
HUNTR/X – “Golden”
HUNTR/X—featuring EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and REI AMI—delivered a fierce, high-gloss performance of “Golden.” It shimmered with confidence and edge, a fitting showcase for the group’s Women of the Year victory.
Tate McRae – “Nobody’s Girl”
Tate McRae brought quiet intensity to the stage with “Nobody’s Girl.” The performance unfolded like a whispered confession—controlled, emotional, and deeply resonant, underscoring her Hitmaker status.
Zara Larsson – “Midnight Sun”
With effortless polish, Zara Larsson lit up the room. “Midnight Sun” pulsed with sleek pop energy, her vocals soaring over a luminous, high-production backdrop.
Keke Palmer – “Text Message Unsent”
Pulling double duty, Keke Palmer stepped into the spotlight with “Text Message Unsent.” It was theatrical, raw, and refreshingly personal—an artist fully in command of her narrative.
Thalía – “Piel Morena / Amor a la Mexicana” (Medley)
Thalía delivered a vibrant cultural moment, backed by mariachi. Her medley of “Piel Morena” and “Amor a la Mexicana” turned the stage into a celebration of heritage, rhythm, and enduring charisma.
Kehlani – “Folded”
Kehlani offered one of the night’s most immersive moments. “Folded” wrapped the audience in smooth, emotional textures—subtle, powerful, and unforgettable.
Laufey – “Silver Lining”
With timeless elegance, Laufey slowed the pace and elevated the mood. “Silver Lining” felt like a love letter to classic jazz, delivered with modern grace.
Teyana Taylor – “Bed of Roses” (Acoustic)
Teyana Taylor closed with stripped-back brilliance. Her acoustic take on “Bed of Roses” was intimate and unguarded—a powerful reminder of why she was honored as a visionary.
A Night That Defined the Moment
The Billboard Women in Music 2026 ceremony didn’t just celebrate success—it captured evolution. Each performance, each award, each moment on stage told a story of artistry that refuses to stand still.
From global pop dominance to soul-baring vulnerability, the night proved one thing beyond doubt: the future of music isn’t waiting to happen—it’s already here, and it’s being led by women rewriting the rules in real time.
Ejae, Audrey Nuna and Rei AmiPerform “Golden”
Teyana Taylor Performs “Bed of Roses” Feat. Wale
Ella Langley Performs ‘Choosin’ Texas’
Keke Palmer Performs “Text Message Unsent”
Laufey Performs 'Silver Lining'
Thalia Performs 'Piel Morena' and 'Amor a la Mexicana'
Kehlani Performs 'Folded'
Tate McRae Performs 'Nobody’s Girl'
Zara Larsson Performs “Midnight Sun”
