This year’s iteration of the iHeartRadio Music Awards got off to an explosive start as Cardi B opened up the annual ceremony with a set that included performances of her “Bartier Cardi” single, her verses on “MotorSport,” “No Limit” with an appearance from G-Eazy, “Finesse,” sans Bruno Mars, and closing things out with her “Bodak Yellow” breakout.
Outfitted with full-on pyrotechnics and plenty of backup dancers, the performance was an exciting and full-circle moment for Cardi and fans watching at home—a feeling that took a life of its own when the crowd proved that they could perform “Bodak Yellow” without any assistance, rapping along in a massive way with the Bronx native.
It’s safe to say that Cardi B set the bar high as far as energy goes with her debut and it’s an energy that will likely find a formidable match in host DJ Khaled. Other performances will arrive from the likes of Camila Cabello, Ed Sheeran and Maroon 5 in between the awarding of trophies.
Tonight, Cardi B also finds herself on the list of nominees in categories like Best New Hip-Hop Artist and Hip-Hop Song of The Year for “Bodak Yellow,” alongside Migos’ “Bad and Boujee,” Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE.,” Post Malone’s “Rockstar,” and DJ Khaled, Rihanna, and Bryson Tiller’s “Wild Thoughts.”
Keep up with the full list of nominations and wins here.