Bieber, Minaj among AMA winners

LOS ANGELES - Justin Bieber thanked his haters after winning the first award at the American Music Awards, while Nicki Minaj and Taylor Swift performed their new singles.

The 18-year-old won favorite pop/rock male artist in the first award handed out at Sunday's American Music Awards and gave a shout-out to those who didn't think he would last on the music scene.

"I want to say this is for all the haters. . .," he said. "I feel like I'm going to be here for a very long time," he said, also thanking his mother, manager, family, and his "beautiful, beautiful fans."

Carly Rae Jepsen, who performed early in the night, won favorite new artist. "I am floored. Wow," she said, thanking Bieber and his manager, Scooter Braun.

Usher kicked off the three-hour show at the Nokia Theater with green laser lights beaming onstage as he performed a medley, including "Numb," "Climax," and "Can't Stop, Won't Stop," which featured a smoky floor and a number of backup dancers.

Swift won her fifth consecutive award for favorite country female artist. "This is unreal. I want to thank the fans. You guys are the ones who voted on this," she said. Luke Bryan won favorite country male artist and Lady Antebellum favorite country group.

Minaj was also a consecutive winner, picking up her second trophy for favorite rap/hip-hop album for Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded.

Party girl Ke$ha was glammed up on the red carpet, rocking long, flowy blond hair and a light pink dress. She switched to her normal attire when she performed her hit single "Die Young."

Kelly Clarkson also hit the stage, making a nod to her "American Idol" roots with a number on her dress and three judges looking on as she sang "Miss Independent." Then she went into "Since U Been Gone," "Stronger" and "Catch My Breath."

American Music Awards nominees were selected based on sales and airplay, and fans chose the winners by voting online.

Along with Rihanna, Minaj was the top nominee with four nominations.

Rihanna, Maroon 5, Drake, Katy Perry, and Bieber were in the running for artist of the year.

The three-hour program broadcast live on ABC was to air performances by Carrie Underwood, Ludacris, Chris Brown, and Swizz Beatz. And Stevie Wonder was providing the soundtrack for a tribute to the late Dick Clark, the show's creator.