On Sunday, October 6, 2024, Stray Kids delivered a once-in-a-lifetime performance at the 50th American Music Awards (AMAs) Special, which paid tribute to the legacy of boy bands. Fans, known as STAYs, from all around the world were buzzing with excitement and anticipation, eager to see how Stray Kids, known for their distinct character and innovative approach to K-pop, would leave their mark on this iconic event.
The night kicked off with a thrilling introduction from none other than Lance Bass of NSYNC and AJ McLean of the Backstreet Boys. The two legends hyped up the audience, their presence adding an extra layer of excitement to an already monumental night. As the introduction video played, a tribute to some of the most legendary boy bands—BTS, NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, New Kids on the Block, One Direction, and more—the crowd’s energy reached a fever pitch.
Lance Bass and @aj_mclean are here to help us celebrate the last 50 years of Boy Bands at the #AMAs! #AMAs50
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) October 7, 2024
Watch NOW on @CBS and streaming on @paramountplus. pic.twitter.com/JpEo614I9J
BOY BANDS FOREVER 🩵 #AMAs50 #AMAs
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) October 7, 2024
Watch NOW on @CBS and streaming on @paramountplus. pic.twitter.com/BnucGXGQ6l
And then it happened. The stage lights dimmed, and suddenly, strings dropped from the ceiling, each one attached to a member of Stray Kids. In a breathtaking homage to NSYNC’s famous marionette-inspired 2000 AMA performance of "Bye Bye Bye," Stray Kids recreated the iconic choreography, adding their signature flair and precision. The audience was captivated as they flawlessly performed the beginning of the song, blending nostalgia with a modern twist.
...ain't no lie @Stray_Kids' NSYNC tribute is ICONIC ✨ #AMAs50
— American Music Awards (@AMAs) October 7, 2024
Watch NOW on @CBS and streaming on @paramountplus. #AMAs pic.twitter.com/thjRtb2FBW
The moment quickly transitioned as Felix took center stage, his charismatic presence undeniable. Stray Kids performed their hit "CHK CHK BOOM," electrifying the crowd with their high-energy, self-produced track. Their reimagined version of the song included a unique twist—sampling the ‘90s vibe and even incorporating elements of “Bye Bye Bye” into the performance. It was a brilliant fusion that both honored the legacy of boy bands and showcased Stray Kids’ unparalleled talent.
Dressed in sleek black outfits and, later, switching to varsity jackets inspired by American college sports teams, the members exuded confidence and charm. The styling even evoked a playful image, as if they could easily step into a high school drama, a cheeky nod to their youthful yet bold image. Only Stray Kids could pull off such a bold, fun concept with such ease.
🚨exclusive @Stray_Kids #AMAs50 content🚨… still not over this 🙂↔️🙂↔️🙂↔️ #StrayKids_Dominate_AMAs pic.twitter.com/MSUFU9Qwdv
— Music is watching the #AMAs50 (@Music) October 7, 2024
As the night unfolded, it became clear that their performance was more than just a tribute—it was a statement. Despite the pressure of paying homage to one of the most iconic boy band songs in history, Stray Kids remained true to themselves, never losing their distinctive essence. The result? A five-star performance that had fans smiling ear to ear, unable to contain their pride.
The crowd went wild, as this moment marked a significant milestone—not only for Stray Kids but for K-pop as a whole. Never before had a K-pop group delivered such a powerful tribute to one of the most successful Western boy bands, blending two worlds that have long inspired each other. K-pop’s rise to global dominance has drawn from the influence of legendary acts like NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys, and Stray Kids brought that full circle in a way no one else could.
As we wait eagerly for their next project, one thing is certain: Stray Kids have an uncanny ability to turn everything they touch into something uniquely their own.
And for those keeping track, their latest album ATE, released on July 19, has become the highest-selling K-pop album in the U.S. in 2024. It’s the fourth best-selling album of the year overall, following Taylor Swift’s The Tortured Poets Department, Travis Scott’s Days Before Rodeo, and Billie Eilish’s Hit Me Hard and Soft.
Stray Kids continue to push boundaries, and their AMA performance was yet another example of why the world can't stop watching them.
Watch the unforgettable performance ✌
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