R&B singer Mary J Blige was the runaway winner at the Billboard music awards in Las Vegas, taking nine gongs.

Janet Jackson graced the stage at the awards ceremony, performing a mix of 1980s song The Pleasure Principle and recent tune So Excited.

After winning the female of the year award, singer Rihanna said: "I really can't feel my legs."

Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie proved to be a colourful presence on stage.

Veteran crooner Tony Bennett, 80, was honoured for his career which has spanned 50 years.

Cast members from hit US TV movie High School Musical had another reason to celebrate - winning best soundtrack.

Ludacris performed at the event - but it was fellow rapper TI who walked away with five awards.

Nelly Furtado, whose album Loose has been a worldwide hit, took best pop single for Promiscuous.

Singer Gwen Stefani - and friend - performed her new song Wind It Up, which features The Lonely Goatherd from The Sound of Music.