Janet Jackson opened the American Music Awards with a bang on Sunday night - performing a spectacular eight minute medley of her hits.

Dressed in a Pocahontas-inspired suede outfit, the superstar ran through a string of her songs, including new single Make Me - accompanied by a breathless dance routine, including some moves inspired by her late brother Michael's famous Thriller video.

Other early performances at the event - taking place at downtown Los Angeles' Nokia Theatre - included Daughtry, a hip-thrusting Shakira and Keith Urban.

Early AMA winners are Best Pop/Rock Band/Duo/Group The Black Eyed Peas and Best Country duo/band Rascal Flats - lifting the prize for the fourth year in a row.