In a dazzling showcase of musical prowess, the 2023 Billboard Music Awards illuminated the industry’s diverse tapestry –– unveiling an array of well-deserved winners and industry powerhouses who left an indelible mark on the charts.
Of all the record labels acknowledged, Universal Music Group (UMG) took home the most number of awards with 35 wins across various titles in the Artists, Album, and Song Awards category. Under UMG, Republic Records took home 30 of the 35 wins under its parent company, with several nods for artists like Taylor Swift, Drake, and Morgan Wallen among others.
Leading the charge though was the incomparable Taylor Swift, a chart-topping juggernaut under the Republic Records and UMG’s umbrella, securing eleven awards, including top accolades such as Top Artist, Top Female Artist, and Top Billboard 200 Artist. Meanwhile, Morgan Wallen proved himself as a force to be reckoned with in the country realm under Republic as well –– clinching ten awards along with prestigious titles like Top Country Artist and Top Country Album for his third studio album, “One Thing at a Time.” Wallen’s magnetic presence also extended to the song domain for his track “Last Night,” securing Top Hot 100 Song and Top Streaming Song.
Other notable winners came from Sony Music Entertainment, with the label earning thirteen wins throughout the night, while Warner Music brought home ten awards from various categories. Under the Sony banner, SZA was awarded four trophies in her respective genre of R&B and Miley Cyrus earned three wins for her chart-topper “Flowers.”
Noteworthy collaborations over the past year also marked the evening, with Metro Boomin, The Weeknd, and 21 Savage’s “Creepin‘” clinching Top Collaboration, along with Jungkook and Latto’s “Seven” which earned an award for Top Global K-Pop Song. Beyoncé, an enduring icon under Columbia Records/Parkwood/Sony Music Entertainment, was heralded as the Top Dance/Electronic Artist. NewJeans, making waves under HYBE’s ADOR, was crowned as the Top Global K-Pop Artist, affirming the genre’s global resonance.
The industry’s evolution also shone through with this year’s newly introduced categories, with credit for the recognition of genres like Afrobeats and Global K-Pop. By acknowledging the impact of tracks from such genres together with the innovative nature of international labels, this year’s show was able to emphasize the global reach and influence of today’s music.
The 2023 Billboard Music Awards underscored a dynamic industry landscape, embracing diversity, innovation, and the profound impact of artists across genres. As the charts continue to reflect the rich tapestry of musical expression, these labels and their artists stand as beacons of creativity, driving the industry forward into new and exciting territories.