Since his rise to fame as a teenage pop sensation, Justin Bieber has consistently delivered memorable performances at some of the biggest award shows around the world. His evolution as a performer, artist, and cultural icon can be traced through these live shows, where he has not only showcased his vocal talent but also his ability to connect with audiences through engaging choreography, heartfelt emotion, and striking visuals.
Over the years, Bieber has built a reputation as one of the most electrifying live performers of his generation, often stealing the show with his stage presence, musical versatility, and sheer passion. From his breakout performances as a teen idol to his more recent mature, polished presentations, Bieber’s award show performances have marked key moments in his career and left lasting impressions on fans and critics alike.
In this article, we’ll walk through Justin Bieber’s top 25 award show performances, detailing what made each one special, how it contributed to his legacy, and why these moments are still talked about today. We’ll also explore the significance of these performances in his career and how they helped define his position in the music industry.
1. MTV Video Music Awards 2010 – “Baby”
In 2010, at just 16 years old, Justin Bieber made his MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) debut with a high-energy performance of his global hit “Baby.” This was a breakout moment for Bieber, as the performance cemented his place as a rising pop superstar. Dressed in a red jacket and performing in front of an enthusiastic crowd, Bieber delivered a flawless rendition of “Baby,” complete with backup dancers and a drum solo that demonstrated his multi-instrumental skills.
This performance was a pivotal point in his career as it solidified his ability to handle the pressures of performing on a major stage. His charisma and youthful energy captivated the audience, making it clear that Bieber was more than just a YouTube sensation—he was here to stay.
2. American Music Awards 2010 – “Pray”
Later in 2010, Justin Bieber took to the stage at the American Music Awards (AMAs) to perform “Pray,” a ballad that showcased his softer, more contemplative side. Unlike the upbeat pop hits he was known for, this performance was emotional and personal. Bieber sat at the piano and delivered heartfelt vocals that resonated with both his fans and the broader audience.
The performance was also a sign of Bieber’s growing maturity as an artist, as he used his platform to address important social issues such as poverty and homelessness. The sincerity in his voice and the stripped-down nature of the set made “Pray” one of his most powerful live performances early in his career.
3. Billboard Music Awards 2011 – “Baby” & “Never Say Never” Medley
In 2011, Bieber returned to the Billboard Music Awards with a medley performance of two of his biggest hits at the time: “Baby” and “Never Say Never.” This performance stood out due to the seamless integration of both songs, showing Bieber’s evolving stage presence and ability to energize a large crowd.
Bieber’s interaction with his fans during the performance, particularly his incorporation of dance routines and engaging visuals, made this one of the most memorable moments of the night. It was clear that Bieber had embraced his role as a live performer and was comfortable commanding the stage in front of millions.
4. MTV Europe Music Awards 2011 – “Mistletoe”
At the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) in 2011, Justin Bieber performed his holiday single “Mistletoe,” offering a more festive and lighthearted performance that contrasted with his typical pop-centric shows. The setting of the performance was reminiscent of a snowy winter wonderland, filled with holiday decorations and warm lighting that added to the charm of the song.
What made this performance notable was Bieber’s ability to effortlessly transition between genres. Though known for his pop and R&B tracks, he comfortably performed a holiday-themed song while still maintaining his signature charisma. The performance was also a hint of Bieber’s versatility as an artist, able to perform for any occasion.
5. American Music Awards 2012 – “As Long As You Love Me” & “Beauty and a Beat”
Justin Bieber’s 2012 performance at the American Music Awards was a career-defining moment. He delivered an unforgettable medley of two hit singles, “As Long As You Love Me” and “Beauty and a Beat.” His performance was backed by complex choreography, stunning visuals, and a live rap appearance by Nicki Minaj during the “Beauty and a Beat” segment.
This performance marked Bieber’s transition from teenage heartthrob to a more mature artist with edgier sounds and themes. His improved vocal delivery, dance routines, and overall stage production made this one of his most polished performances to date.
6. Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2012 – “Beauty and a Beat”
In 2012, Justin Bieber also performed at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, which was an unconventional but exciting platform for the pop star. He performed “Beauty and a Beat,” and the juxtaposition of his upbeat, energetic song with the glamorous runway show created an electric atmosphere.
Bieber’s confidence on stage, alongside supermodels walking the runway, demonstrated his ability to perform in diverse settings. The playful and flirty nature of the performance perfectly complemented the fashion show, making it one of his more unique and entertaining live appearances.
7. Billboard Music Awards 2013 – “Take You”
At the 2013 Billboard Music Awards, Justin Bieber took the stage to perform “Take You,” a track from his third studio album, Believe. This performance was notably more stripped down compared to some of his more elaborate productions, allowing Bieber’s vocals to shine.
It was a pivotal moment in Bieber’s career as he was beginning to shift away from the bubblegum pop that defined his early years, embracing a more mature sound and image. His confidence as a vocalist and performer continued to grow, and the performance showcased his evolution into a more serious artist.
8. MTV Video Music Awards 2015 – “Where Are Ü Now” & “What Do You Mean?”
The 2015 MTV VMAs marked a huge comeback for Justin Bieber after a few years of controversy and personal struggles. He performed a medley of “Where Are Ü Now” and his new hit “What Do You Mean?”, and the emotional impact of the performance was undeniable.
Bieber’s choreography was sharp, and his vocals were impressive, but what made this performance so iconic was its ending: after finishing the song, Bieber broke down in tears. His vulnerability on stage resonated with viewers, symbolizing his return to music after a difficult period in his personal life. This performance was a turning point that marked the beginning of Bieber’s redemption arc.
9. American Music Awards 2015 – “Sorry” & “Love Yourself” Medley
In 2015, Bieber also performed at the AMAs, delivering a powerful medley of “Sorry” and “Love Yourself.” Both songs were massive hits from his Purpose album, and this performance showcased the new, mature direction his music was taking.
The performance started with a stripped-down acoustic rendition of “Love Yourself,” allowing Bieber’s raw vocal talent to take center stage. He then transitioned into a high-energy performance of “Sorry,” complete with intricate choreography and a rain-soaked stage that left a lasting impression. The performance perfectly encapsulated Bieber’s transformation into a more serious and accomplished artist.
10. Grammy Awards 2016 – “Love Yourself” & “Where Are Ü Now”
Justin Bieber’s 2016 Grammy Awards performance was a milestone in his career, as he had finally achieved Grammy recognition for his work. He performed “Love Yourself” with a simple acoustic guitar accompaniment before launching into a high-energy rendition of “Where Are Ü Now” with Jack Ü (Skrillex and Diplo).
This performance stood out because it showcased both sides of Bieber: the introspective singer-songwriter and the EDM-driven pop star. His collaboration with Skrillex and Diplo on “Where Are Ü Now” had helped redefine his sound, and this Grammy performance was a celebration of that new direction.
11. MTV Europe Music Awards 2016 – “Let Me Love You”
At the 2016 MTV Europe Music Awards, Bieber performed “Let Me Love You,” another hit from his Purpose album. This performance was notable for its simplicity, focusing primarily on Bieber’s vocals and stage presence.
The performance was a reminder of Bieber’s ability to connect with his audience through music alone, without relying heavily on flashy visuals or choreography. It also showed his growth as a vocalist, with a more controlled and mature delivery than in his earlier performances.
12. iHeartRadio Music Awards 2016 – “Company” & “Love Yourself”
At the iHeartRadio Music Awards in 2016, Bieber performed a medley of “Company” and “Love Yourself.” The performance was fun, and engaging, and featured a high-energy dance routine that kept the audience on their feet.
Bieber’s ability to seamlessly switch between an acoustic ballad like “Love Yourself” and a dance-heavy track like “Company” demonstrated his versatility as an artist. It also further established his dominance in the pop music world, showing that he could deliver hit after hit in a live setting.
13. One Love Manchester Benefit Concert 2017 – “Love Yourself” & “Cold Water”
One of Bieber’s most emotionally charged performances took place at the One Love Manchester Benefit Concert in 2017, held in response to the tragic Manchester Arena bombing. Bieber performed acoustic versions of “Love Yourself” and “Cold Water,” dedicating the songs to the victims and their families.
The performance was raw and heartfelt, and Bieber’s emotional connection to the event was clear. His stripped-down delivery allowed the audience to focus on the message of love, healing, and resilience, making this one of his most poignant performances.
14. MTV Video Music Awards 2021 – “Stay” & “Ghost”
Bieber’s return to the VMAs in 2021 was a highly anticipated moment, and he did not disappoint. Performing “Stay” with Kid Laroi and “Ghost” from his album Justice, Bieber once again proved why he is considered one of the best live performers of his generation.
The performance was full of energy, with Bieber bouncing around the stage and delivering pitch-perfect vocals. His chemistry with Kid Laroi was electric, and the performance was a reminder of Bieber’s continued relevance in the ever-changing music industry.
15. MTV Europe Music Awards 2015 – “Sorry”
Bieber’s 2015 performance of “Sorry” at the MTV EMAs was another major comeback moment. With a tropical house beat and infectious choreography, Bieber brought the house down with his performance.
This performance was significant not only because “Sorry” was one of the biggest songs of the year, but also because it symbolized Bieber’s newfound maturity and his ability to adapt to changing musical trends. The dance-heavy performance showcased his growth as a live entertainer and reinforced his place at the top of the pop world.
16. Billboard Music Awards 2016 – “Company” & “Sorry”
At the 2016 Billboard Music Awards, Justin Bieber delivered another high-energy performance with a medley of two massive hits from his Purpose album, “Company” and “Sorry.” This performance stood out due to its incredible stage production, featuring dynamic visuals and lighting effects that captivated the audience.
Bieber opened with “Company,” starting off with a smooth dance routine while maintaining impeccable vocal control. He then transitioned into “Sorry,” ramping up the energy with intricate choreography and the signature tropical house beats that defined the track. This performance was memorable because it reinforced Bieber’s evolving artistic direction, showing that he had fully embraced a more mature sound and stage presence.
17. American Music Awards 2016 – “Let Me Love You” (with DJ Snake)
In 2016, Justin Bieber collaborated with DJ Snake on their hit song “Let Me Love You,” which they performed at the American Music Awards. The performance was simple yet impactful, with Bieber taking the stage solo, leaving the DJ Snake collaboration as more of a production element.
While there wasn’t a complex set design or elaborate choreography, Bieber’s vocals were strong, and the performance demonstrated his ability to hold the audience’s attention without relying on heavy theatrics. The stripped-down nature of the performance allowed the song’s emotional core to shine through, highlighting Bieber’s vocal growth and his ability to connect with fans on a personal level.
18. The 2015 NRJ Music Awards – “What Do You Mean?”
At the 2015 NRJ Music Awards in France, Bieber performed his smash hit “What Do You Mean?”—one of the leading singles from his album Purpose. The performance was notable for its slick production and visual elements. Bieber delivered the song with precision, surrounded by dancers who complemented the smooth, laid-back vibe of the track.
This performance was particularly important in Bieber’s career because it marked his increasing presence in the international music scene. His popularity in Europe had grown significantly, and performances like this one helped solidify his position as a global pop icon. Bieber’s cool confidence and stage charisma shone through, making this a standout award show moment.
19. Grammy Awards 2020 – “Intentions” (with Quavo)
In 2020, Bieber teamed up with rapper Quavo to perform their hit collaboration “Intentions” at the Grammy Awards. The performance was laid-back and smooth, showcasing Bieber’s ability to blend pop with hip-hop elements seamlessly.
Dressed in a simple outfit that mirrored the song’s chilled vibe, Bieber delivered strong vocals and an easygoing stage presence, while Quavo’s rap verse added an extra layer of energy to the performance. The two artists had a natural chemistry on stage, making this one of Bieber’s more polished and engaging performances. It was also a testament to Bieber’s versatility as an artist, able to switch between different genres effortlessly.
20. MTV Video Music Awards 2021 – “Peaches” & “Ghost”
At the 2021 MTV Video Music Awards, Justin Bieber took to the stage with two of his most recent hits, “Peaches” and “Ghost.” This marked Bieber’s first live VMA performance in six years, and it was clear that he was back with renewed energy and passion.
Bieber kicked off the performance with “Peaches,” accompanied by his collaborator Daniel Caesar. The upbeat nature of the song, combined with Bieber’s effortless vocals, set the tone for a fun and energetic performance. He then transitioned into “Ghost,” delivering an emotional rendition of the ballad with raw intensity. The performance was stripped back yet powerful, leaving a lasting impact on the audience and reminding everyone that Bieber had not only matured as an artist but had also embraced a deeper emotional connection with his music.
21. The 2013 Teen Choice Awards – “As Long As You Love Me”
In 2013, Justin Bieber brought his A-game to the Teen Choice Awards, performing his hit song “As Long As You Love Me.” The performance featured a complex dance routine, blending urban choreography with Bieber’s smooth vocals.
The Teen Choice Awards have always been an important stage for Bieber, as they allowed him to directly connect with his core teenage fan base. This performance, filled with high-energy dancing and powerful vocals, captured the hearts of his fans and demonstrated his ability to dominate any stage with his charisma and raw talent.
22. Billboard Music Awards 2020 – “Stuck With U” (with Ariana Grande)
In 2020, amid the pandemic, Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande released their collaboration “Stuck With U,” a soft and emotional ballad. At the Billboard Music Awards, they performed the song remotely due to social distancing restrictions. Despite the virtual format, the performance was highly praised for its authenticity and emotional depth.
The stripped-down acoustic setting allowed Bieber’s vocals to shine alongside Grande’s, making the performance feel intimate and heartfelt. This collaboration was particularly meaningful during the difficult times of the pandemic, and their performance of “Stuck With U” became a symbol of hope and resilience.
23. American Music Awards 2013 – “All That Matters”
At the 2013 American Music Awards, Justin Bieber performed his sultry R&B track “All That Matters.” This performance marked a noticeable shift in Bieber’s musical style, moving away from the pop sounds that defined his earlier career to a more mature, soulful sound.
Dressed in a sleek black outfit, Bieber delivered a smooth, seductive performance that highlighted his vocal range and showcased his evolution as an artist. The minimalist stage design and focus on Bieber’s voice made this one of his most intimate and impactful performances at the time, showing the world that Bieber was no longer just a teen pop star—he was growing into a seasoned performer.
24. MTV Europe Music Awards 2015 – “What Do You Mean?”
Justin Bieber’s performance of “What Do You Mean?” at the 2015 MTV Europe Music Awards was a triumphant return to form. After a period of personal turmoil, Bieber used this performance to remind the world of his undeniable talent and stage presence.
The performance was a visual spectacle, featuring impressive choreography, colourful lights, and a massive stage that complemented the tropical house vibes of the track. Bieber’s vocals were on point, and his smooth dance moves showed that he had regained his confidence and was ready to reclaim his spot at the top of the music world. This performance was a major highlight of the night and a significant moment in Bieber’s comeback story.
25. One Love Manchester Benefit Concert 2017 – “Cold Water”
The One Love Manchester Benefit Concert in 2017 was a deeply emotional event, and Bieber’s performance of “Cold Water” was one of the standout moments. He performed an acoustic version of the song, dedicating it to the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing.
Bieber’s vulnerability and heartfelt delivery struck a chord with both the audience and viewers around the world. The stripped-down nature of the performance, coupled with Bieber’s raw emotions, created an intimate and powerful moment that left a lasting impact. This performance was a reminder of the power of music to heal and unite during times of tragedy.
26. American Music Awards 2020 – “Lonely” & “Holy” (with Benny Blanco)
At the 2020 American Music Awards, Justin Bieber performed two emotionally charged songs, “Lonely” and “Holy,” alongside collaborator Benny Blanco. The performance was raw and vulnerable, reflecting the deeply personal themes of both songs.
“Lonely,” a song about Bieber’s struggles with fame and isolation, was delivered with heartfelt emotion. Bieber’s vocals were fragile yet powerful, allowing the audience to feel the weight of his experiences. He followed up with “Holy,” a song about love and faith, creating a perfect balance between vulnerability and hope. This performance marked another milestone in Bieber’s evolution as an artist, showing his ability to convey deep emotions through his music.
27. MTV Video Music Awards 2010 – “U Smile”
In 2010, a teenage Justin Bieber performed “U Smile” at the MTV Video Music Awards, captivating the audience with his youthful charm and talent. The performance was a throwback to his early days, with Bieber sitting at a grand piano and showcasing his vocals in a more stripped-down setting.
While most of Bieber’s performances during this period were energetic and heavily choreographed, “U Smile” was a refreshing change of pace. It demonstrated Bieber’s ability to slow things down and let his voice take center stage, leaving a lasting impression on both fans and critics.
28. Juno Awards 2021 – “Peaches” & “Hold On”
At the 2021 Juno Awards, Canada’s prestigious music event, Justin Bieber took the stage to perform two of his latest hits, “Peaches” and “Hold On.” This performance was a homecoming of sorts, as Bieber is a proud Canadian, and his appearance at the Junos was highly anticipated.
Bieber delivered a smooth and laid-back performance of “Peaches,” complete with his signature swagger, followed by a more emotionally intense rendition of “Hold On.” The duality of these two songs showed Bieber’s range as an artist, seamlessly switching between fun, carefree vibes and deeper, more introspective themes. This performance was a reminder of Bieber’s continued influence in the Canadian music scene.
29. Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2012 – “As Long As You Love Me”
In 2012, Justin Bieber performed “As Long As You Love Me” at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in what became one of his most iconic performances. While the fashion show was filled with glamorous models and dazzling outfits, Bieber managed to stand out with his smooth vocals and engaging stage presence.
This performance was a high-energy spectacle, with Bieber interacting playfully with the models while delivering flawless vocals. The mix of fashion and music created a unique atmosphere, and Bieber’s confidence on stage made it clear that he was comfortable performing in any setting.
30. iHeartRadio Music Awards 2017 – “Despacito” (with Luis Fonsi)
One of the most significant collaborations of Justin Bieber’s career was his remix of “Despacito” with Luis Fonsi. In 2017, they performed the global smash hit together at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, and the result was nothing short of explosive.
Bieber’s decision to sing in Spanish for the remix of “Despacito” had already garnered widespread attention, and this performance showed that he could effortlessly pull it off live. The chemistry between Bieber and Fonsi was electric, and the crowd’s energy was palpable. This performance helped cement “Despacito” as one of the most successful songs of the decade, while also showcasing Bieber’s ability to cross cultural boundaries and explore new musical territories.
Justin Bieber’s journey through the world of award show performances has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early teenage years, when he captivated audiences with hits like “Baby” and “One Time,” to his evolution into a mature, versatile performer delivering emotional ballads and genre-bending collaborations, Bieber has consistently proven his ability to dominate the stage. His live performances have been pivotal in defining not only his career but also his artistic identity.
What makes Justin Bieber’s award show performances particularly memorable is their diversity. He has seamlessly moved from high-energy dance routines and complex choreography to intimate, stripped-down acoustic sets. His ability to switch between genres—whether it’s pop, R&B, EDM, or even reggaeton with “Despacito”—demonstrates his wide-ranging talent and appeal to audiences across the globe. Each performance reflects a different stage of his personal and musical growth, highlighting the changes in his life and career.